Download 788T User Guide and Technical Information

788T
High Resolution Digital Audio Recorder with Time Code
User Guide and Technical Information
firmware rev. 1.60
SATA
2.5" HDD
UDMA
Sound Devices, LLC
300 Wengel Drive • Reedsburg, WI • USA
+1 (608) 524-0625 • fax: +1 (608) 524-0655
Toll-Free: (800) 505-0625
www.sounddevices.com
[email protected]
USB
2.0
400 / 800
Table of Contents
Quick Start Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Powering the Unit
Setup Menu Navigation Basics
Connecting Audio Sources
Routing Inputs to Tracks
Track Arming
Selecting Recording Parameters and File Destination
Time Code Setup
Recording
Playback
File Transfer to Computer
Front Panel Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Panel Lock
Back Panel Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Right Panel Connectors and Controls . . . . .10
Left Panel Connectors and Controls . . . . . .11
LCD Display Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Input Settings Window Descriptions . . . . . .14
Track Setup Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Master Gain Levels Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Take List Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Drive Directory (File Viewer) Descriptors . . .18
Input Setup and Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Input Settings Window
Input Type
Phantom Power
High-Pass Filters (microphone-level only)
Input Gain
Input Limiters
Input Polarity
Input Mute
Input to Track Routing
Analog Inputs
Input Linking (Stereo or MS Decoding)
Digital Inputs
AES42 Digital Microphones
Input Delay
Disabling Inputs
Input to Track Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Routing via the Setup Menu
Routing via the Input Settings Window
Routing via the CL-8
Track Arming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Master Gain Levels
Sampling Rate and Bit Depth . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Sampling Rate
Sampling Frequency and Audio Bandwidth
Bit Depth
Bit Depth and Dynamic Range
Synchronization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Clock Master
Word Out
Digital Outputs
Clock Slave
Internal
Sample Rate Converters
Word Clock
Video Sync
Digital Inputs 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
Outputs – Analog and Digital . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Output Types
Analog Balanced Line Outputs 1-4
Analog Unbalanced Output 5-6
Balanced Digital AES Outputs 1-6
Headphone Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Selecting Headphone Sources
Setting Headphone Source Options
Input Solo (PFL)
MS Stereo Monitoring
SoundField B-Format Surround Monitoring
Multi-Function Rotary Switch Behavior
Headphone Favorite Selection
Headphone Playback Mode
Headphone Warning Tones
Recording Start and Stop Tones
Low Battery Warning
Headphone Power Up Gain
Headphone Source as Outputs
Metering and Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Output Meter
Digital Meter View
Meter Ballistics
VU (Volume Units)
Peak Only
Peak/VU
Peak Hold Time
Input Activity Ring LEDs
Headphone Peak LED
Tone Oscillator
LCD Contrast & LED Brightness
LCD Backlight
CL-8 Metering and Display
Time Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Frame Rate
F Sampling Rate Modes
48.048k and 48.048kF
Fostex DV40
47.952k and 47.952kF
Time Code Modes
Off
Free Run:
Record Run
Free Run Jam Once
24 Hour Run
Ext TC
Ext TC/cont
Ext TC-Auto Record
Ext TC/cont-Auto Record
Time Code Hold Off
Jam Menu
Jam RX TC
Jam Zeros
Jam Value
Edit Value
User Bits
NTSC Standard Def Video Production
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Recording
Pre-Record Buffer
Media Select
Failure During Recording
Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
AutoPlay
Audio File Formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
.WAV
File Type
Monophonic
Polyphonic
Take Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Scene Name/Numbering
Scene Name Incrementing/Decrementing
Take Numbers
Take Number Incrementing/Decrementing
False Take Control
Emptying the False Take Folders
Track Naming
Take List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Take Edit Menu
Notes
Renaming Takes
Duplicate Takes
Circle Take
Project
Scene
Take
Tape (Roll)
Set and Clear Copy Flags
Deleting Takes
Renaming Tracks
File Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Automatic File Splitting
File Time and Date
Folder Actions
The Drive Directory (File Viewer) . . . . . . . . . .59
Navigation
Selecting Files for Playback
Folder Options Menu
Rename Folders
Delete Folders
Set and Clear Copy Flags
Drive Directory Options Menu
Emptying the Trash
Erase (Media Format)
Storage Media – Internal Hard Drive . . . . . . .64
Drive Type
Drive Replacement
Storage Medium – Removable CompactFlash 65
When to Use CF
Formatting
Speed Testing
Qualified CF Cards
Storage Medium – External FireWire Drives .66
When to Use External FireWire Drives
Formatting
FireWire Bus Powering
Qualified Drives
DVD-RAM Drives
File Copying Among Available Media . . . . . .68
Error Conditions:
File Transfer to Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Powering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70
Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery
External Powering and Battery Charging
Time Code Clock Battery
Auto Functions with External Powering
Power Consumption Variables
Firmware Upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72
Version Information
Upgrading Firmware
Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Keyboard Assignments
Menu Keys
String Edits & Take Name/Number (Renaming & Notes)
Assignable Shortcuts
Shortcut List Functionality
Logic In
Logic Out (Record Tally)
CL-1 Keyboard and Remote Control Interface
Connecting the CL-1
CL-1 Keyboard Interface
CL-1 Logic Inputs and Outputs
Logic Inputs
Logic Outputs
CL-8 Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79
CL-8 Connection
CL-8 Front Panel Descriptors
CL-8 Side Panel Descriptors
CL-8 Back Panel Descriptors
CL-8 Views
Main View
Aux Routing View
Input Settings View
Slate Mic
Setup Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84
User Setup Data File
Setup Menu Shortcuts
Front Panel Button Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . .92
Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . .93
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94
Appendix A - Recording Time Calculation . .96
Uncompressed Recording Time in Track-Hours
Record Time
PCM Audio
Audio Data Rate = Bit Depth x Sampling Frequency
Appendix B – Metadata Implementation . . . .97
Appendix C – File Naming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98
Monophonic WAV File Track Number Designators
Duplicate File Names
Appendix D- FAT32 and Maximum File Size .99
Appendix E - Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99
CE Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . . . . .101
Software License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102
Warranty and Technical Support . . . . . . . . .103
1
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Welcome
Thank you for purchasing the 788T. The ultra-compact 788T records and plays back audio to and
from its internal hard drive, CompactFlash, or external drives, making field recording simple and
fast. It writes and reads uncompressed PCM audio at 16 or 24 bits with sampling rates between 32
kHz and 48.048 kHz. The time code implementation makes the 788T ready for any recording job—
from over-the-shoulder to cart-based production.
The 788T implements a no-compromise audio path that includes Sound Devices’ high-performance
microphone preamplifiers. Designed specifically for high bandwidth, high bit rate digital recording,
these preamps set a new standard for frequency response linearity, low distortion performance, and
low noise.
With documentary and ENG mixing engineers in mind, the 788T is very small, while still being
feature-rich. No other recorder on the market matches its size and feature set. In addition, its learning curve is quite short—powerful does not mean complicated.
Sound Devices took advantage of the best in professional and consumer electronic technologies to
bring incredible feature depth with ease of use. Hard drives and CompactFlash are highly reliable,
industry standard, and easily obtainable. With the ability to write to an external drive, low-cost, portable media can be delivered to post production. The removable, rechargeable battery is a standard
Sony-compatible Li-ion camcorder battery pack. The 788T interconnects with Windows and Mac OS
computers for convenient data transfer and backup.
788T Firmware Known Issues
For a complete list of any known issues: sounddevices.com/download/788t-firmware.htm.
Copyright Notice and Release
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the expressed written permission of SOUND DEVICES,
LLC. SOUND DEVICES is not responsible for any use of this information.
SOUND DEVICES, LLC shall not be liable to the purchaser of this product or third parties for damages, losses, costs, or expenses
incurred by purchaser or third parties as a result of: accident, misuse, or abuse of this product or unauthorized modifications, repairs, or
alterations to this product, or failure to strictly comply with SOUND DEVICES, LLC’s operating and installation instructions.
Microsoft Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation. Macintosh is a registered trademark of Apple Computer. Other
product and company names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
The sound waves logo is a registered trademark of Sound Devices, LLC.
2
v. 1.60
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Quick Start Guide
The 788T is an extremely powerful and flexible portable digital audio recorder. Before recording,
please familiarize yourself with the product. Several settings should be verified or set based on individual recording needs.
Powering the Unit
1.
Apply power to the unit by attaching the (included) removable, rechargeable Li-ion (Lithium Ion) battery to the back panel battery mount. The metal tabs on the mount line up with the electrical contacts
on the battery. From the factory, the battery may not have a charge, so external DC may be needed for
initial operation and charging. Connect the (included) XL-WPH2, AC-to-DC power adapter to the DC
input plug to power and charge the battery.
2.
POWER key for one second to turn the unit on. Press and hold the POWER key
Press and hold the
for one second to turn the unit off.
If this is the first time the recorder has been powered, the date and time may need to be set.
Charge the included Li-ion battery for 6 hours prior to initial use.
Setup Menu Navigation Basics
The Setup Menu provides options for recording, routing, and control of parameters. The single layer
menu structure allows for very quick navigation and selection of functions. To enter the Setup Menu
MENU key. Once in the Setup Menu, the following conventions are shared
press the front panel
for navigating among selections and to select specific parameters.
•
- The MENU key enters the Setup Menu
• ITEM - Highlighted menu item
•
- Check Mark (
TONE key) selects the highlighted item or parameter
• - Up arrow (
MENU key) moves up in menu and between menu parameters
• - Down arrow (
HDD key) moves down in menu and between menu parameters
LCD Backlight key) exits the selected menu or the Setup Menu altogether
• -X(
• The
STOP key exits from any menu, cancels any changes, and escapes all Setup Menus.
The Multi-Function Rotary Switch (labeled “Select”) is a convenient control to quickly navigate
among menu items and item options. Its push-to-select function duplicates the check mark in most
menus.
Connecting Audio Sources
1.
Connect audio sources, either analog or digital, to the appropriate input connector.
2.
When using either input, set the appropriate input level to mic, line, or digital, in the Input Settings
Window. Move and hold the Input Selector Switch toward the respective input to access the Input Settings Window.
3.
If Mic-level inputs are used on XLR inputs 1-4 or TA3 inputs 5-8, make certain that phantom power,
input limiters, and high-pass filters are activated in the Input Settings Window as required.
3
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Routing Inputs to Tracks
Before recording, inputs must be assigned to armed tracks. Each of the 788T’s eight inputs (1, 2, 3,
4, 5, 6, 7, 8) can be assigned to any of the twelve tracks (Left, Right, A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, Aux 1, and
Aux2). Any of the eight inputs can have its own isolated track, multiple inputs can be summed to the
same track, or an input can be routed to multiple tracks.
1.
INPUT key to cycle through factory routing prePress and hold the
STOP key then press the
sets. The 788T has six often-used presets for quick setup of input-to-track routing combinations.
2.
If none of the preset routing combinations are suitable, assign a custom routing. Sequential presses of
the
INPUT key will eventually cycle to the custom routing option. See Input to Track Routing. From
the custom input routing menu any input can be assigned to any track, including multiple inputs assigned to a single track.
3.
Press EXIT to leave input routing mode.
Track Arming
Before recording, tracks must be armed via the Track Setup Window. To access the Track Setup
Window press the
INPUT key. Tracks that are armed are indicated by a * next to the Track letter.
Navigate through the available tracks using the Multifunction Rotary Switch. Press in on the Multifunction Rotary Switch to arm/disarm select tracks. At least one track must be armed in order for the
788T to begin recording.
Selecting Recording Parameters and File Destination
For most productions, the general recording parameters of bit depth, sampling rate, media selection, and file format are infrequently changed. Enter the Setup Menu to verify recording settings. Bit
depth and sampling rate are displayed on the LCD panel.
1.
Select the bit depth as needed in the Setup Menu option REC: BIT DEPTH.
2.
Set the sampling rate as needed in the Setup Menu option REC: SAMPLE RATE.
3.
Select the file type, WAV mono or WAV poly in the Setup Menu option REC: FILE TYPE.
4.
Select the storage media to be recorded to (Internal hard drive, CompactFlash, External drive, or any
combinations of the three drives) in the Setup Menu option REC: MEDIA SELECT.
Time Code Setup
When using a time code workflow, proper time code setup is essential for accuracy. Skip this section
if time code is not being used.
1.
Select the appropriate time code frame rate in the Setup Menu option TIMECODE: FRAME RATE.
2.
Select the appropriate time code mode in the Setup Menu option TIMECODE: MODE.
3.
Determine whether the 788T is to be the time code master or slave. Set time code parameters accordingly to ensure all recording equipment is using the same time reference. See Time Code for additional
information on time code setup.
Recording
With the file parameters set, you are ready to begin recording. The 788T is a record-priority device—
pressing the
RECORD key cancels all functions, except file-based operations, and immediately
begins recording a new file. To confirm the 788T is actively recording, the Record LED, REC key, and
the LCD backlight all illuminate red. The filename on the LCD display shows the currently recorded
file. Press and hold the
STOP key to end recording.
4
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Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Playback
When recording is stopped, the most recently recorded file is immediately available for playback.
Press the
PLAY key to begin file playback from the beginning of the file. When the 788T is in
Playback mode the LCD backlight will illuminate green.
To select a file for playback:
1.
Press and hold the
(HDD) key to select a drive for playback. The playback source is the storage
volume highlighted on the LCD display. The last file recorded is the default file ready for playback.
2.
Press the
Directory.
3.
Use the Multi-Function Rotary Switch to navigate through the Drive Directory (File Viewer).
4.
Once a file is highlighted, press the
(HDD) key to access the Take List, press the
(HDD) key again to access the Drive
PLAY key to begin playback.
When playback has finished, the filename will begin flashing. Use the
FAST FORWARD key or
REWIND key to step through files in the folder, or press the
STOP key to exit Playback.
File Transfer to Computer
Sound Devices strongly recommends shutting down equipment before connecting to or from any
FireWire 400 device with a connection that carries power (6-pin). Reports have come to our attention of
isolated problems when hot-plugging IEEE 1394a (FireWire 400) devices. (Hot-plugging refers to making
connections when one or more of the devices—including the computer—is on.) When hot-plugging, there
are rare occurrences where either the FireWire 400 device or the FireWire 400 port on the host computer
is rendered permanently inoperable. From our experience, any FireWire 400 connection which carries
power is susceptible to this type of damage. It is possible to connect a FireWire 400 connector upside
down. This, too, may potentially damage the FireWire connection on the 788T, the computer, or both.
When connected via FireWire 400 (IEEE-1394a), FireWire 800 (IEEE-1394b), or USB to a Mac OS or
Windows OS computer (See Specifications for computer requirements), the internal hard drive and CF
card mount onto a computer as “letter” accessible mass storage volumes. Use the appropriate cable
for interconnection. Files on the 788T can be treated as if they are local files, including renaming files,
copying, deleting and playing directly from the 788T hard drive. It is best practice to make a backup
copy of all audio files before any processing is performed on the files.
To connect the 788T for file transfer to computer:
1.
Stop all playback and recording activity. Make certain the 788T battery is fully charged, or connect to
external DC.
2.
Connect the 788T to the host computer with a FireWire 400, FireWire 800, or USB cable. No drivers are
required if the computer meets the requirements listed in Specifications.
If connecting to a computer and the 788T does not automatically connect, it is necessary to initiate
connection to the computer by accessing the FIREWIRE/USB: CONNECTION Setup Menu option or by
simultaneously pressing the
STOP and
HDD keys.
3.
The 788T will enter FireWire/USB transfer, indicated by FIREWIRE/USB: CONNECTION on the LCD
display. All menu and disk access functions of the 788T are stopped while the 788T is connected to a
computer.
4.
Navigate to either the hard drive or CF card from the computer and copy all needed audio files to local
storage on the computer.
To avoid any possible directory corruption on the 788T, do not interrupt the connection process and
always properly dismount the drives from the operating system. On Mac OS platforms, drag the drive
icons to the trash. On Windows platforms, use the “Disconnect External Media” icon in the system tray.
5
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Front Panel Descriptions
All 788T settings can be accessed and monitored through the front panel LCD and navigation keys.
This allows the unit to be placed in a production bag along with field mixers and wireless transmitters and receivers.
1
2
4
3
5
6
7
8
INPUT
ARM
MENU
3
1
2
5
4
8
788T
HDD
L
D
A
E
0
dBFS
14
1) Input Activity Ring LEDs
The LEDs surrounding the Input gain
pots indicate the input activity for each
input, respectively. The LEDs illuminate
in various colors and intensities to represent the state of each input.
See Metering and Display.
2) Input Gain Pots
By default, controls the analog and digital input gain (input trim) of each channel respectively. The Input gain pots can
be selected in the Setup Menu to act as
fader controls. See Fader Control.
Input Gain Pots can be switched to
the Off position to mute the input and
unroute it from its designated track. This
ultimately extends battery life. Defeat
inactive inputs by turning the knob full
counter-clockwise (Off) position. See
Input Setup and Control
3) Input Selector/Solo Switch
Selects odd numbered inputs when
pushed left and even numbered inputs
when pushed right. Selecting an input
using the Input Selector/Solo Switch
will display the respective Input Settings
Window. If enabled in the Setup Menu,
the Input Selector Switch will also PFL
(pre fade listen) the input in the headphone monitor. To exit the Input Settings
Window, press the Input Selector Switch
again or select another Input. For momentary action, press and hold the Input
Selector in position for one second or
longer. See Input Setup and Control
6
v. 1.60
15
16
17
12
PWR
ARM
F
B
IN CF EX
13
11
C
R
7
6
10
9
18
19
0
dBFS
REC
20
21
4) MENU Key
Accesses the 788T Setup Menu. When
in the Setup Menu use the MENU key
to move up through the options and
parameters.
5) LCD Display
Primary display of 788T status. The
LCD is backlit by pressing and holding
the LCD backlight key and pressing the
Multifunction Rotary Switch. When the
backlight is active the backlight color
can be set to indicate the recorder’s
current mode. Red = Recording Mode,
Green = Playback Mode, White =
Standby Mode
6) TONE key
Press and hold to activate the tone oscillator. Frequency, tone level, and routing
are controlled in the Setup Menu. When
in the Setup Menu use the TONE key
to enter Setup Menu options and select
parameters when the check mark appears in the upper right hand corner of
the LCD.
7) Track Arm LEDs
A solid blue LED indicates that the
respective track is armed and ready to
record.
8) Level Meter LEDs
Eight, 13-segment track level-meters
indicate level in dBFS. Metering ballistics and peak hold times are selected
in the Setup Menu. Tracks C, D, E, F can
be used to view Tracks G, H, X1, X2. See
Metering and Display.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
9) INPUT Key
Press to access the Track Setup Menu,
from which the user can arm/disarm
record tracks and view meter activity for
all 12 tracks. Press and hold the STOP
key then press the Input key to access
the Input: Track Routing Setup Menu.
Cycle through factory and custom routings by pressing the Input key while
holding the STOP key. See Input-to-Track
Routing
14) Rewind Key
Performs reverse (REW) scrubbing
through the played file when pressed in
playback and play-pause mode. Playpause indicated by flashing A-time on
LCD. Reverse playback rate increases
the longer the key is held. In play-stop
mode (indicated by flashing filename
on LCD) selects the previous file in the
record folder (either daily folder or main
folder).
10) Power Key
To power up the unit, press and hold the
Power (PWR) Key for about one second.
To power the unit down, press and hold
the Power Key for about one second.
15) Play Key
Plays back the file displayed in the LCD.
If pressed immediately after recording is
stopped, the most recently recorded file
is played back.
11) Power/Charge LED
Indicates the 788T is powered and available for operation. Indicates the charge
status of the onboard battery charger.
16) Fast-Forward Key
Performs fast-forward (FF) scrubbing
through the played file when pressed in
playback and play-pause mode. Playpause indicated by flashing A-time on
LCD. Fast forward rate increases the longer the key is held. In play-stop mode
(indicated by flashing filename on LCD)
selects the next file in the record folder
(either daily folder or main folder).
12) Headphone Output Peak LED
Indicates overload of the headphone
amplifier. When lit, the headphone circuit is overloading. Reduce headphone
level.
13) HDD Key
Press to enter the Take List and Drive
Directory. From the Take List, view and
edit metadata across all storage mediums. From the Drive Directory navigate
between storage media, folders, and
files. View folder and file properties and
select files for playback.
The media that is selected for playback
is shown on the left hand side of the
main screen. Press and hold the HDD
key to toggle between available media.
If only one media is present, media
toggle is disabled. When in the Setup
Menu use the HDD key to move down
through the options and parameters.
17) LCD Backlight Key
Press to toggle between Level Meter
LEDs to View 1 (Tracks C - F) and View
2 (Tracks G, H, X1, X2). Press and hold
then Press the Multifunction Rotary
Switch to toggle the LCD and Front
Panel soft key backlighting. Hold the
LCD Backlight key and turn the MultiFunction Rotary Switch to adjust the
brightness of LEDs. In the Setup Menu
the LCD Backlight key functions as the
cancel and exit key.
18) Media Activity LEDs
Indicates storage media activity. IN (internal hard drive), CF (CompactFlash),
EX (external FireWire device). The LED
illuminates green when the storage
media is ready, illuminates yellow when
the storage media is writing/reading
and while connected to a computer, and
illuminates red when the storage media
has encountered an error, if the drive
has less than one minute of recording
time left, or when running the Drive
Repair utility.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Front Panel Descriptions cont.
1
2
4
3
5
6
7
8
INPUT
ARM
MENU
3
1
2
5
4
8
788T
HDD
L
D
A
E
B
F
0
dBFS
IN CF EX
13
14
19) Stop/Pause Key
Momentarily press and hold this key to
stop recording. In playback mode, a single press pauses playback (play-pause),
allowing audio scrubbing with the FF
and REW keys. Another press of the key
enters play-stop mode where the FF and
REW keys select files for playback from
the current directory, the filename and
time display flash to indicate that a new
file has been selected. One more press of
the key exits playback mode.
Pressing the STOP key whilst in stop
mode displays the name of the next file
to be recorded in the LCD. In the Setup
Menu the STOP key is also used to exit
from any menu, returning to the main
display.
15
16
17
11
12
PWR
ARM
C
R
7
6
10
9
18
19
0
dBFS
REC
20
21
20) Record Key
Press to begin recording. The 788T is
a record-priority device; pressing this
key starts recording and discontinues
all other functions, except file operations. The REC key will illuminate red
when the 788T is actively recording. If
the selected storage media is not ready
to begin recording a new file, the REC
key will flash red until the recording has
begun. Pressing the REC key during recording can set a cue marker, start a new
file, as selected in the Setup Menu.
21) Record LED
Illuminates red when record mode is
active.
Panel Lock
Press and hold the
LCD backlight key then the
TONE key to bring up the front panel Button Lock Screen. Button lock prevents unintentional setting changes and/or record status. The 788T
displays any button lock options currently enabled.
select the soft keys to
activate the appropriate
button lock mode
There are three modes:
• Unlocked – all keys are accessible and operate normally.
• Non-Transport Lock – All front panel controls are locked except the Record, Stop, Play, Rewind
and Fast Forward keys.
• Lock All – All front panel keys are locked except the REC key. The REC key is kept active so
the user can initiate recording after entering this mode and enter cue markers. To stop recording in this mode, you must disengage the panel lock and press the stop key.
8
v. 1.60
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Back Panel Descriptions
1
2
KEYBD
OUT
C.LINK
3
4
IN
AES I/O, GPIO, PWR
COMPACT FLASH
5
6
1) USB Keyboard Input
USB A Female Connector for USB keyboard and CL-8 Controller See Remote
Control for more details regarding Keyboard
and CL-8 setup and functionality.
2) C. Link In/Out
6-pin modular (“RJ-12”) connectors. Not
a telephone jack! For connection to CL-1
Keyboard and Remote Control Interface.
See Remote Control for more details on the
CL-1.
3) CompactFlash Slot
Accepts CompactFlash media with the
label-side up. Compatible with Type I,
Type II, and MicroDrives. High-speed
UDMA cards are recommended for
higher track count recording.
5) Multi-Function DE-15 Connector
Multi-function DE-15 connector acts as
AES3 Inputs 1-8, AES3 Outputs 5-6, and
Logic In and Out. Analog and digital
inputs can be used simultaneously. See
Connector Pin Assignments.
Sample Rate Converters are enabled
on each AES input when Setup Menu
REC: SYNC SOURCE is set to Internal.
See Sample Rate Converterts.
AES inputs support AES42 Mode 1 operation, supplies +10 V of digital phantom
power. See AES42 Digital Microphones.
6) Security Slot
Compatible with the Kensington® Security Slot specification. Used to secure the
recorder to a fixed object with a compatible computer lock.
4) Battery Mount
Accepts Sony® InfoLithium L-Series batteries. Also accepts batteries conforming
to this mount. Numerous capacities,
from 1500 to 7000 mAh are available.
9
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Right Panel Connectors and Controls
2
1
3
4
5
6
7
WORD / VID IN
DC IN
10-18V
MENU
SELECT
1
2
3
ANALOG BAL LINE OUTS
FW800
FW400
USB
BAL AES
OUT
SYNC
PIN 4 (+)
PIN 1 (-)
UNBAL
8
5,6
9
1) Multi-Function Rotary Switch
When in the Setup Menu, the rotary
switch moves between menu selections;
push to enter selection or enter data.
In Record and Playback modes, selects
headphone monitor source; press action
is user selectable. Turn the knob while
holding the LCD Backlight key to adjust
the brightness of LEDs.
2) TA3 Analog Outputs 1-4
Active-balanced, analog outputs 1-4.
Program source and attenuation levels are user selectable. Pin-1 ground,
pin-2 (+), pin-3 (–). When connecting
to an unbalanced input, do not connect
pin-3.
3) FireWire 800 (IEEE-1394b) Port
Connection to a computer (Mac OS,
Windows) to access the internal hard
drive and CompactFlash volumes as
mass storage devices. Also used to attach external FAT32-formatted FireWire
drives to the 788T for direct recording
and copying.
4) FireWire 400 (IEEE-1394a) Port
Connection to a computer (Mac OS,
Windows) to access the internal hard
drive and CompactFlash volumes as
mass storage devices. Also used to attach external FAT32-formatted FireWire
drives to the 788T for direct recording
and copying.
5) USB-B Port
Connection to a computer (Mac OS,
Windows) to access the internal hard
drive and CompactFlash volumes as
mass storage devices.
10
v. 1.60
4
1,2
10
3,4
WORD OUT
TIMECODE
11
12
6) Sync Input
This BNC is used to connect an external video sync or word clock reference
signal for word clock purposes. Accepts
NTSC, PAL, and Tri-level video syncs as
well as word clock rates between 32 kHz
and 48.048 kHz.
7) External DC In
Accepts power from 10–18 volts DC to
power and charge the Li-ion battery.
Hirose 4-pin connector is wired pin-1
negative (-), pin-4 positive (+). Pin-2 and
pin-3 are not connected. Charging characteristics are set in the Setup Menu.
8) Headphone Output
1/4-inch and 3.5 mm TRS stereo headphone connectors. Can drive headphones from 8 to 1000 ohm impedances
to very high levels. Tip = left, ring =
right, sleeve = ground.
9) Analog Output 5-6
Unbalanced output on 3.5 mm TRS
stereo connector. Program source and attenuation levels are user selectable. Tip
= left, ring = right, sleeve = ground.
10) AES3 Output 1-2 and 3-4
Transformer-balanced AES3 digital outputs 1-2 and 3-4. Program source is user
selectable.
11) Time Code Multi-Pin
Time code input and output on 5-pin
LEMO® connector.
12) Word Clock Output
Provides a word clock output running at
the sample rate of the 788T.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Left Panel Connectors and Controls
1
3
2
1) XLR Analog Inputs Channels 1-4
Active-balanced analog microphone- or
line-level input for inputs 1-4 on XLR
connector. Input type is set within the
Input Settings Window. Pin-1 ground,
pin-2 (+), pin-3 (−).
3) Headphone Volume
Adjusts the headphone volume. NOTE:
the 788T is capable of producing eardamaging levels in headphones. Please
use with caution
2) TA3 Analog Input Channels 5-8
Active-balanced analog microphoneor-line-level input connector for inputs
5-8. Input type is set within the Input
Settings Window. Pin-1 ground, pin-2
(+), pin-3 (−).
LCD Display Descriptions
1
8
9
2
10
11
3
12
1) Battery/Voltage Level Indicator
Indicates voltage level of the removable battery or external power sources.
If present, external power overrides
battery power. Graphical bar for relative
level and numeric indicator for precise
voltage measurement.
4
13
5
14
6
15
7
16
2) File Name Display
Shows file name actively being recorded
or played back. In Playback-Stop mode,
flashing file name indicates that the
Fast-Forward and Rewind keys can be
used to step through files in the current
playback directory.
11
788T User Guide and Technical Information
LCD Display Descriptions cont.
1
8
9
2
10
11
3
12
3) Absolute Time (A-time) Display
Shows the elapsed time of the file being recorded or played back in hours,
minutes, seconds, and tenths. The Atime and the time code display can be
exchanged if a large time code display
is needed. This display can be set to
reverse or flash while recording. Flashes
in playback-pause mode.
4) Cue Marker Display
In Record mode, indicates when cue
markers are set. Markers set by pressing
the REC key (option must be selected in
Setup Menu). In Playback mode, displays cue points numerically as they are
reached in a file.
5) Sample Rate Indicator
Displays the set record sampling rate. In
Playback mode, displays the currently
selected file’s sampling rate.
6) Time & Date Display
Alternating display between the set date
and time of the 788T. This information is
written as the creation and modification
date for generated audio files.
7) External Digital Clock Indicator
This display will show when the 788T
is locked to a valid external sync source,
sync reference is user-selectable in the
Setup Menu. The display will indicate
the current valid sync source
D = digital input, W = word clock, V =
video. The display currently shows that
the recorder is successfully locked to a
valid word clock source.
12
v. 1.60
4
13
5
14
6
15
7
16
8) Media Descriptors
For all three media types, an asterisk in
front of the media descriptor indicates
which media is selected for record.
Highlighted media descriptor indicates
media selected for record monitoring,
playback or file directory display.
9) CompactFlash Status
(space remaining/record ready)
Bar graph indicates the remaining record time available on the CompactFlash
media. Numbers show time in hours
and minutes based on the presently selected number of record tracks, sample
frequency, and bit rate.
10) Internal Hard Drive Status
(space remaining/record ready)
Bar graph indicates remaining record
time available on the internal hard
drive. Numbers show time in hours and
minutes based on the presently selected
of number of record tracks, sample frequency, and bit rate.
11) External Media Space Status
(space remaining/record ready)
If a drive is not attached the indicator
shows dashes. Bar graph indicates remaining record time available on the external FireWire volume. Numbers show
time in hours and minutes based on
the presently selected number of record
tracks, sample frequency, and bit rate.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
12) Time Code Display
In Stop and Record modes, displays
the time code generated or received by
the 788T. In Playback mode, displays
the the time code information of the file
currently selected for playback (if available). If non-time code files are playing,
the display shows dashes. The time code
display can be exchanged with the Atime display in the Setup Menu.
13) Headphone Source Display
Indicates the source for headphone output. Sources and selection order are user
selectable in the Setup Menu.
14) Time Code Frame Rate
Displays the set time code frame rate. If
a file has time code information embedded, the playback frame rate is indicated. If external time code is connected
and the external rate differs from the
rate set internally, the display will flash.
15) Bit Depth Indicator
Shows the set record bit depth. In playback, shows the file bit depth.
16) Meter Toggle
Press the soft VU (LCD Backlight) key
to toggle between VU1 and VU2 views.
VU1 displays Tracks C, D, E, F on the
second column of Front Panel Level
Meter LEDs, and VU2 displays Tracks G,
H, X1, X2.
16
17
18
16) Input Level
When input gain is adjusted, gain level
is indicated in dB for the input being
adjusted and its neighboring input. The
relationship of inputs is configured in
the following manner and cannot be
altered 1,2 / 3,4 / 5,6 / 7,8. Neighboring
inputs are not linked or grouped unless
specifically linked in the Setup Menu.
Mic input gain range is from 0 dB to 76
dB, Line input range is from -25 to 50 dB
and Digital input range is from -25 to
50 dB.
17) Headphone Gain Level
When the headphone gain is adjusted,
this will appear and indicate the gain
level in dB.
18) Slate Mic Gain Level (CL-8 only)
Slate Mic gain level is adjusted from -46
to 6 dB in 1 dB increments. To attenuate
the gain press and hold the CL-8 SLATE
button and turn the Multi Function
Rotary Switch.
13
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Input Settings Window Descriptions
To access the Input Settings Window press the Input Selector Switch into the position of the desired
input. Pushing the Input Selector Switch to the left will select the odd numbered inputs and pushing it to the right will select the even numbered inputs. Press the Input Selector Switch for the select
input again to return to the previously displayed screen.
1
2
7
1) Input Type
The highlighted selection indicates current Input Type. Input Type is selectable from Mic, Line, and Digital Inputs
for each channel respectively. Toggle
through Input Type selections by pressing the MENU key.
2) Input Gain Display
The Input gain is displayed in dB for the
selected input. Information displayed
toggles between TRIM and FADER
levels, if CL-8 Controller is attached or
INPUT: FRONT PANEL CONTROLS is set
to Fader Controls. When set to Faders,
use the Multifunction Rotary Switch to
attenuate Trim levels. Pressing in on the
Multifunction Rotary Switch will toggle
control between Trim level and HighPass Filter control.
3) Input Selected
Displays the Input that has been selected.
4) Headphone Monitor Hold Indication
Press and hold the Input Selector Switch
for five or more seconds to latch Input
PFL. To exit the PFL monitoring select
another input with the Input Selector
Switch or rotate the Multi-Function
Rotary Switch. This mode only applies
when the INPUT: PFL FUNCTION is set
to enabled.
14
v. 1.60
3
8
4
5
6
9
10
5) High-Pass Filter
Indicates the state of the High-Pass
Filter and the cut off frequency selected.
Control the High-Pass Filter by using
the Multi-Function Rotary Switch.
6) Phantom Power
The highlighted selection shows the current state of phantom power (48 volts)
for the selected input. Enable or disable
Phantom Power by using the Tone key.
7) Input Limiter
The highlighted selection shows the current state of the Input Limiter for the selected Input. Enable or disable the Input
Limiter using the HDD or Rewind key.
8) Input to Track Routing
The highlighted selection(s) indicates
the track(s) that the selected input is
currently routed to. To enter and exit the
Input to Track Routing press the Play
key.
9) Input Mute
When highlighted the select Input is
Muted and removed from all tracks.
Input Mute is toggled on and off using
the Fast Forward key.
10) Input Polarity
When highlighted the current state of
the Input’s Polarity is inversed. Control
polarity using the LCD Backlight key.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
The following screen appears if the select Input is linked as a stereo pair.
11
The following screen appears if the select Input gain pot is switched to the Off position.
12
11) Panning Control
If the Input selected is a linked stereo
pair, the odd numbered inputs will display gain and the even numbered inputs
will display the stereo image.
12) Channel Is Powered Down
The Input Settings Window cannot
be accessed if the Input’s Gain Pot is
switched to Off.
Track Setup Window
1
2
3
1) Track Armed Indicator
An * (asterisk) next to a Track indicates that the track is armed to record.
Navigate through the Tracks using
the Multifunction Rotary Switch. The
selected track has a box around it (Track
G in the example above). To arm/disarm
the track, press in on the Multi Function
Rotary Switch.
2) Track Level Meters
Displays all twelve available track Level
Meters. Meter ballistics settings are
identical to the front panel Track Level
Meters and are adjustable within the
Setup Menu.
4
3) Master Gain Levels
Press the Play key to view the Master
Levels Window.
4) VU Toggle
Press the soft VU (LCD Backlight) key
to toggle between VU1 and VU2 views.
VU1 displays Tracks C, D, E, F on the
second column of Front Panel Level
Meter LEDs, and VU2 displays Tracks G,
H, X1, X2..
15
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Master Gain Levels Window
1
2
5
4
3
1) L/R Meters
Displays real time metering of Left and
Right Track Levels.
4) Tracks
Press the soft Tracks (Play) key to return
to the Track Settings Window.
2) AUX Meters
Displays real time metering of X1 and
X2 Track Levels.
5)
AUX Master Gain
Pressing the soft AUX (Fast Forward)
key will select the Aux Tracks Master
Gain level. Gain is attenuated from 0
to -60 dB in .1 dB increments using the
Multi Function Rotary Switch or the soft
up and down arrows. Press in on the
Multi Function Rotary Switch to return
to unity gain (0 dB).
3) L/R Master Gain
Pressing the soft L/R (Rewind) key will
select the Left and Right Tracks Master
Gain level. Gain is attenuated from 0
to -60 dB in .1 dB increments using the
Multi Function Rotary Switch or the soft
up and down arrows. Press in on the
Multi Function Rotary Switch to return
to unity gain (0 dB).
Take List Descriptions
To access the Take List press the HDD key or select Setup Menu option FILE: VIEW TAKE LIST.
From the Take List view and edit metadata across all storage mediums.
1
6
3
2
7
1) Current/Last Take
The * indicates the current take being
recorded or the last take to have been
recorded by the 788T.
16
v. 1.60
5
4
8
9
10
2) Next Take
The n indicates the name of the next take
to be recorded. With the n take highlighted the user can make notes entry or
increment/decrement Scene and Take
for the next file to be recorded.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
3) Take Name Column
This is a sequential list of Takes recorded
by the 788T firmware revision 1.5+.
7) RENAME
Press the soft RENAME (Rewind) key to
access the file/metadata rename window.
4) Next File Destination
Displays folder destination for the next
Take to be recorded.
8) EDIT
Press the soft EDIT (Play) key to access
the Take Edit Menu. From this menu,
make notes entries and view/edit the
following metadata at anytime for any
take: Notes, Rename, Circle, Project,
Scene, Take, Tape (Roll), Set/Clear Copy,
Delete (sends file to the Trash), and
Rename Tracks.
5) Additional File Information
Displays additional file information, the
following information can be toggled
through by pressing in on the Multifunction Rotary Switch: Beginning Time
Code Stamp, Time of File Creation, Date
of File Creation, Scene Names, Drives
Containing the File, and Folder that
Contains the File.
9) NOTES
Press the soft NOTES (Fast Forward)
key to quickly access the Notes field.
6) DRV (Drive Directory)
Press the soft Drive (HDD) key to access
the Drive Directory (File Viewer).
10) X Exit
Exits to the previously viewed window.
The following screen appears if the next (n) file is highlighted.
12
11
11) Take +/Appears when the next take, indicated
by the “n” is highlighted. Pressing the
soft Take +/- (Rewind) key will access
the Take increment or decrement options.
12) Scene +/Appears when the next take, indicated
by the “n” is highlighted. Pressing the
soft Scene +/- (Fast Forward) key will
enter the Scene increment or decrement
window.
The following screen appears if Take +/- (11) is selected.
13
13) Take Appears when the Take +/- is selected.
Pressing the Take - (Rewind) key will
decrement the take number. If the take
number is decremented to match the
name of the last file recorded, the False
Take prompt will appear.
14
15
14) Done
Pressing the soft DONE (PLAY) key
saves the increment/decrement settings
for the next take to be recorded.
15) Take +
Appears when the Take +/- is selected.
Pressing the soft Take + (Fast Forward)
key will increment the take number.
17
788T User Guide and Technical Information
The following screen appears if Scene +/- (12) is selected.
16
17
14
16) Scene Appears when the Scene +/- is selected
in the above window. Pressing the
Scene - (Rewind) key will decrement the
scene.
17) Scene +
Appears when the Scene +/- is selected.
Pressing the soft Scene + (Fast Forward)
key will increment the scene. Scenes
will be incremented with either alpha
characters or numeric digits, depending
on the setting for Setup Menu option
REC: SCENE INCREMENT MODE.
Drive Directory (File Viewer) Descriptors
To access the Drive Directory press the soft DRV (HDD) key from within the Take List. Press the
HDD key twice from the main screen for quick access to the Drive Directory. To return to the Take
List from the Drive Directory, press the TK soft (HDD) key.
1
2
3
8
v. 1.60
9
5
10
7
6
11
1) Root Directory
Press to quickly access the Root Directory. From the Root Directory navigate
between media or perform drive functions via the Drive Options Menu.
4) Additional File Information
Displays additional information of the
currently selected file. The information
displayed is determined by the state of
the File Information Toggle (6).
2) Directory Path
Indicates the directory path for the file/
folder currently being viewed.
5) Time and Date
Display toggles between date of file
creation and time of file creation for the
highlighted file.
3) Selected File
Scroll through polyphonic and monophonic files using the Multifunction
Rotary Switch. The highlighted file will
display file properties and additional file
information. Press play to immediately
playback the select file.
18
4
6) File Information Toggle
Press to toggle the type of information
displayed in the Additional File Information field (4). The following information is displayed.
BEG = Beginning Time Code Stamp,
LEN = Length of File, USR = User Bits,
FPS = Frames Per Second.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
7) File Size
Displays the size of the currently selected file.
10) Copy Flag Status
Displays the status of the Copy Flags.
Check marked files have Copy Flag set.
8) Take List
Press to access the Take List.
11) X Exit
Exits to the main screen.
9) File Properties
Displays channel count, bit depth, and
sampling rate of the highlighted file.
The following screen appears if the Root Directory (1) is selected.
12
13
14
12) Media Select
Highlight desired media to view or perform drive functions.
13) Free Space
Displays the amount of free space available on the highlighted media. The time
available is dependent on user setup.
15
15) Drive Directory Options Menu
Press the soft Options (Fast Forward)
key to access the Drive Options Menu.
The following drive functions are
performed in the Drive Options Menu:
Rename, Set/Clear Copy Flags, Empty
Trash and False Takes, Erase (format).
14) Media Size
Displays the media size for the highlighted media.
19
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Input Setup and Control
The 788T has eight inputs and twelve record tracks. Inputs can be analog or digital sources. Analog
inputs 1-4 use XLR connectors; inputs 5-8 use TA3 connectors. Digital AES3 inputs 1-8 use the DE-15
(D-Sub) connector.
Analog and digital inputs can be used simultaneously.
Gain is controlled by the front panel Input Gain Potentiometers. They can be switched to the Off
position to disable and power down the input and to ultimately extend battery life. Disable inactive
inputs by turning the Input Gain Pot to the full counter-clockwise (Off) position. The Input Gain Pots
must be activated to route the respective input to a track and/or access the Input Settings Window.
Input Settings Window
From the Input Settings Window, view and/or change the following settings:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Input Type
Phantom Power
High-Pass Filter
Input Gain (Trim and Fader)
Input Limiter
Input Polarity
Input Mute
Input Routing
To enter the Input Settings Window, press the desired input’s Front Panel Input Selector Switch. The
Input Settings Window will latch on, this allows for one handed operation of the 788T. If momentary
action is desired, press and hold the Input Selector Switch for one second or more. To exit the Input
Settings Window press the selected Input Selector Switch again or select another Input.
While in the Input Settings Window the selected input is displayed in the center of the screen. The
selected input will be soloed in the headphone monitor, although this can be disabled in the Setup
Menu option INPUT: PFL FUNCTION.
If the Input Selector/Solo Switch is held for 5 or more seconds “Hold” will appear on the screen
and the soloed input will remain in the headphone monitor until either another headphone monitor mode has been selected with the Multi-Function Rotary Switch or with the Input Selector/
Solo Switch. Once the Input Selector Switch is pressed again, the 788T will return to the previously
displayed screen.
If the selected input is stereo linked, both of the inputs will be soloed in the headphone monitor.
20
v. 1.60
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Input Type
Select between Mic, Line, or Digital inputs using the MENU key while in the Input Settings Window.
Input Type
Input Connectors
Gain Range (Trim only)
Mic
XLR 1-4, TA3 5-8
Off (-infinity) 0 dB to 76 dB
Line
XLR 1-4, TA3 5-8
Off (-infinity) -25 dB to 50 dB
Digital
AES3 1-8 (D-Sub 15)
Off (-infinity) -25 dB to 50 dB.
Phantom Power
Phantom power (48 volts) can be activated individually, for each analog input. Enable or disable
Phantom Power in the Input Settings Window using the Tone key.
Phantom power can be used for both mic- and line-level inputs. Using line-level inputs with microphones
is useful in high SPL environments such as concert recording. Make certain to disable phantom power
with Line-level output devices susceptible to damage from DC.
High-Pass Filters (microphone-level only)
High-pass filters on microphone inputs reduce sensitivity to low frequency signals. Pressing the
Multi-Function Rotary Switch will engage or disengage the High-Pass Filter. Turn the Multi-Function
Rotary Switch to select the cut off frequency in 10Hz steps from 40 Hz to 320 Hz.
If the Setup Menu option INPUT: FRONT PANEL CONTROLS is set to Fader Controls, pressing the
Multi-Function Rotary Switch will toggle between Trim and High-Pass Filter control.
Filter slopes of 6 dB and 12 dB per octave are selectable in the Setup Menu and will apply to all inputs
where the high-pass filter have been engaged.
Input Gain
The Input gain levels will be displayed in the Input Settings Window. If a CL-8 is attached or the
Setup Menu option INPUT: FRONT PANEL CONTROLS is set to Fader Controls, the display will
toggle between Fader and Trim levels. When set to Fader Controls, the Trim level is set using the
Multi-Function Rotary Switch. Pressing in on the Multi-Function Rotary Switch will toggle between
Trim and High-Pass Filter control.
Input Limiters
Analog inputs incorporate an advanced, analog/DSP-controlled hybrid limiter to prevent input
overload. In normal operation and with proper gain settings, the limiters should rarely engage.
When activated, these limiters will prevent unusually high input signal levels from clipping the
analog input stage of the preamp.
The Input Activity LEDs illuminate yellow when an input is being limited. The Input Limiters are
active for both mic- and line-level inputs. The Limiter is driven by both pre and post fade signals.
Enable or disable the Input Limiters using the soft Lim (HDD) key while in the Input Settings Window. The 788T offers several adjustments for its peak limiter to tailor the sound to the user’s desire:
Threshold; Knee; and Recovery.
The Limiter Threshold adjusts the maximum peak level at which the limiter will engage. Sounds
louder than this threshold are attenuated. This threshold is adjustable in the Setup Menu option
INPUT: LIMITER THRESHOLD from -12 to -2 dBFS in .1 dBFS increments.
The Limiter Recovery adjusts how slowly the limiter brings its gain back up after a peak is limited. A shorter recovery follows the envelope of speech better than a longer recovery, but at
21
788T User Guide and Technical Information
the expense of low-frequency distortion. Recovery time is adjustable in the Setup Menu option INPUT: LIMITER RECOVERY from 50 msec to 2000 msec in 10 msec increments.
Setup Menu option INPUT: LIMITER KNEE allows the user to control whether the limiter has a
Hard- or Soft-Knee. The hard knee setting leaves all program material below the threshold completely unaffected and attenuates only those peaks above the threshold. The soft knee setting attenuates
the program material slightly before the threshold (about 6 dB) for a more gradual tape-like sound.
Inputs can have their limiters linked or grouped according to the Input Linking settings. This is ideal
for working with stereo or surround sources. See Input Linking.
Input Polarity
Input Polarity inversion (sometimes referred as phase reverse) can be applied to both analog or digital inputs. This can be used to rectify incorrectly wired balanced cables, to prevent signal cancellation
when a source is dual-miked from opposite directions, or reverse left/right with MS microphones.
Select between Normal and Inverse polarities using the LCD Backlight key. When the Input Polarity
symbol is highlighted, the polarity is inversed.
Input Mute
To mute an input, press the soft Mute (Fast Forward) key. When an input is muted, the Mute display
will flash and the respective Input Activity Ring LED illuminates solid red. Muting an input effectively turns the Input Off without having to touch the Input Gain Pot. Muted Inputs are immediately
removed from all routed tracks and headphone monitoring options. This is useful when an input is
not needed temporarily but the user wishes to maintain all settings and levels.
Input to Track Routing
The Input to Track Routing allows the user to quickly view and edit the input-to-track routing for the
selected input. The highlighted selections indicate the tracks that the input is currently routed to. In
order to record, tracks must be armed in the Track Setup Menu. For more details view the Input to Track
Routing Section.
Analog Inputs
Analog inputs 1-4 on XLR connectors and analog inputs 5-8 on TA3 connectors, are the primary connections into the recorder. These inputs accept balanced or unbalanced mic- or line-level inputs. Gain
is controlled by the front panel Input Gain Pots.
Input Linking (Stereo or MS Decoding)
Inputs 1-8 can be grouped or linked together to ensure that gain is applied evenly across all linked
inputs. Linked or grouped inputs can also be muted and un-routed from tracks by using a single
Input Trim Pot. Input settings such as Input type, Limiter, Phantom Power, and High-Pass Filters are
also linked and will be applied across all linked inputs.
Neighboring inputs can be linked as stereo pairs in the following sequences: 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, and 7-8.
When linked, the odd Input’s trim controls the signal level of linked inputs, and the even Input’s
trim controls the left-to-right balance of the stereo pair.
When set to link as an MS pair, the inputs are decoded as MS stereo, where the gain and balance for
the pair work the same as stereo linking above. The odd input is for Mid signal and the even input is
for Side signal.
When linked, the Input Selector Switch will solo the linked pair in the headphone monitor. For
example if Input 1 and Input 2 are linked as a stereo pair, pushing the Input Solo Switch will change
the headphone monitor to 1,2 (Input 1 on the left-side and Input 2 on the right-side of the headphone
monitor).
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
When a CL-8 is attached or the Setup Menu option INPUT: FRONT PANEL CONTROLS is set to Fader
Controls, the odd Fader will control the post fade signal level of the linked pair and the even fader
will be disabled.
If MS stereo linking is selected for inputs, program sent to tracks and headphones will be L/R stereo program. To record discrete M and S signals, do not link for MS, but monitor the MS signal in headphones.
Digital Inputs
The 788T accepts AES3 (AES/EBU) balanced and AESid unbalanced digital signals in professional
or consumer format via its DE-15 connector. The 788T will auto detect the type of digital signal and
adjust accordingly. Digital input gain is controlled via the front panel potentiometers.
To use a digital input, the Input Type switch located in an input’s Input Settings Window must be set
to Digital. Although a digital input signal contains a pair of inputs, the 788T is able to select just one
of the pair as an input, so for example, it is possible to select line or mic for Input 1 and digital for
Input 2.
When recording from a digital input, it is important to sync the 788T’s sample clock from a source
that is synchronous with the digital input signal otherwise audio quality will be degraded. See Synchronization. The simplest way to achieve this is to set the 788T to derive its sample clock from the
clock embedded within a digital signal. Go to the REC: SYNC REFERENCE Setup Menu and set the
sync source to the applicable digital input pair.
The LCD will display ‘D’ when locked to the selected digital input. If the Input Activity ring LEDs
are flashing, then a digital input is selected but no valid digital clock is being received.
AES42 Digital Microphones
The 788T is compatible with digital microphones conforming to the AES42 specification, such as the
Schoeps CMD-2U. By setting DIGITAL INPUT: AES42 POWER to Enabled, the 788T supplies +10V
of “digital phantom power” to each of the digital inputs. The gain of the microphone can be adjusted
with the 788T’s front panel gain control just like a normal analog microphone. The gain adjustment is
controlled in the 788T digital domain.
Never apply digital phantom to unbalanced digital inputs, as this can result in damage to the hardware.
The 788T can lock its sample clock to a single AES42 digital microphone signal. This is set from the
Setup Menu option REC: SYNC REFERENCE to the corresponding digital inputs. When the 788T is
set to use its internal clock any connected incoming AES3 or AES42 signal is sample rate converted.
Things to consider when using AES42:
• The 788T supports four AES42 pairs.
• Input Limiters can not be enabled for Digital Inputs.
• The 788T supports AES42 Mode 1 operation, Mode 2 operation is not supported. In other
words, the 788T supports digital audio transfer via AES42. However, it does not support the
AES42 protocol for remote control, microphone identification, or status flag indicators. Mode 2
microphones will automatically operate in Mode 1 when connected to the 788T.
• When using multiple AES42 microphones set the REC: SYNC REFERENCE to Internal. This
will ensure a synchronous operation between the 788T and digital microphones.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Input Delay
A digital delay is selectable on each input of the 788T. Delay time per input is selectable in tenths of
a millisecond (0.1 msec) steps up to 30 msec. Each input has its own designated Input Delay Setup
Menu. If an input is turned Off, its Input Delay Setup Menu is crossed out. Delay is not set until the
Multi-Function Rotary Switch is pressed or the Check Mark (Tone) soft key is selected.
Input delay can be useful for time aligning input signals from differing sources. For example, digital
wireless mics that have a processing delay in their outputs. In addition, all digital conversion stages
have delay.
Disabling Inputs
Input Gain Pots can be switched to the off position to mute the input and to un-route it from its
designated track. Disabling inputs deactivates associated circuitry and ultimately extends battery
life. Disable inactive inputs by turning the Input Gain Pot to the full counter-clockwise (Off) position. Input Activity LEDs for each respective input will remain off when disabled. When an input
is switched to Off the Input Selector/Solo Switch for the respective input will be disabled. If it is
desired to temporarily disable an input without changing gain levels use the Input Mute from within
the Input Settings Window.
Input to Track Routing
The 788T uses a flexible routing scheme to assign inputs to tracks, any input can be routed to any
track. Multiple inputs can be routed to a single track to create mono-mixed tracks or to a pair of
tracks to create stereo-mixed tracks. Input to track routing is managed either in the Setup Menu or
via the Input Settings Window. If attached, Tracks L, R, X1, and X2 can be routed from the CL-8.
Tracks L and R are always post fade, Tracks A-H are always pre fade, and Tracks X1 and X2 can be
sent pre or post fade. In stand alone mode and the front panel gain controls set to Trim Controls,
fader levels are fixed at unity gain. Tracks are destinations for inputs, they can be routed to outputs
and/or selected for recording. See Track Arming. The following diagram displays the available input
to track routing options, the check marks and asterisks indicate factory default settings.
Tracks
* Track is Armed for Recording
Post Fade
L*
R*
Pre Fade
A*
B*
C*
D*
E*
Pre or Post
F*
G
H
1
2
3
Inputs
4
5
6
7
8
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X1
X2
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Routing via the Setup Menu
Press and hold STOP then press the INPUT key to bring up the following menu. This menu can also
be accessed via the Setup Menu option INPUT: TRACK ROUTING.
Continue to hold down the Stop key then press the
INPUT key to cycle through the preset
input-to-track routing combinations. These presets are factory set and cannot be changed. The last
three preset selections are CUSTOM ROUTE options. Press the EDIT soft key to enter the custom routing menu. Custom routing allows any input to be assigned to any track. In the menu, highlighted
input and track combination are displayed in white text. The eight inputs are shown on the left; the
twelve tracks are shown on the right. Tracks X1 and X2 can be assigned as pre or post fade, when
these tracks are highlighted press the Play key to toggle between pre and post fade assignment.
To assign custom input routings:
1.
Press the
INPUT key until INPUT TRACK ROUTING is displayed on the LCD display.
arrow indicates highlighted input is assigned
to highlighted track
select to exit menu
and apply selected
routing
selet to move up
and down menu
select to remove
input assignment
2.
Press the EDIT soft button (
) and scroll to the appropriate input screen.
3.
Using either the Multi-Function Rotary Switch or the up and down arrows, navigate to the desired
input-to-track combinations.
4.
When a chosen pairing is highlighted, press either the ASSIGN soft key or the Multi-Function Rotary
Switch to assign the combination. Assigned tracks are noted on the screen by the addition of an arrow
pointing to the record track.
5.
Once a track is assigned, move to the next input-to-track combination desired.
6.
To remove an input-to-track combination assignment, navigate to that combination and press the
UNASSIGN (LCD Backlight) soft key or the Multi-Function Rotary Switch.
7.
Tracks X1 and X2 can be assigned to track pre or post fade. Press the Play key to toggle between pre and
post fade routing per input.
7.
Exit and complete the assignment by pressing the Check Mark (Tone) soft key.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
The Input Routing menu will always exit to the main screen. Tracks must be armed in the Track Setup
Menu in order to record.
Routing via the Input Settings Window
The Input to Track Routing in the Input Settings Window allows the user to quickly view and edit
the input-to-track routing for the selected input. The highlighted selections indicate the tracks that
the input is currently routed to. In order to record, tracks must be armed in the Track Setup Menu.
To edit track assignments:
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1.
Enter the Input Settings Window using the Input Selector Switch. The image below indicates that Input
1 is currently assigned to Track L.
2.
To make edits to the track assignments press the Play key.
3.
Route or un-route inputs to Track L and Track R by pressing the Rewind and Fast-Forward keys respectively. Route or un-route Tracks A-X2 using the Multi-Function Rotary Switch. Scroll through the assignable tracks by turning the rotary switch. To route or un-route tracks, press in on the rotary switch.
4.
Tracks X1 and X2 can be set to be pre or post fade. To toggle between the pre and post fade setting, press
in and hold the Multi-Function Rotary Switch. If the Track has a line above it is set to be post fade, if the
Track has a line below it is set to be pre fade.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
5.
The image below indicates that Input 1 is now routed to Track L, A, and X1 post fade. Once changes
have been made, the settings will be saved in the INPUT: TRACK ROUTING Setup Menu option under
the “Edited” routing selection.
6.
To exit Input to Track Routing press the Play key.
7.
The new track assignments will be visible from the Input Settings Window.
Routing via the CL-8
From the CL-8 the user can quickly make input to track routing changes to the Left, Right, Aux 1,
and Aux 2 Tracks. See CL-8 controller section for more details.
Track Arming
The 788T will only record tracks that are armed. Track arming is controlled in the Track Setup Menu.
At least one track has to be armed in order for the 788T to begin recording. To arm a track for recording perform the following steps.
1.
Enter the Track Setup Menu by pressing the INPUT key.
2.
Navigate through the Tracks using the Multi-Function Rotary Switch. The Track with the box around it
is the selected track. This is Track G in the above image.
3.
The * in front of a given track indicates that the track is armed for recording. Arm/Disarm selected
tracks by pressing in on the Multi-Function Rotary Switch. The above image indicates that Tracks L, R,
A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H are armed for recording. Tracks X1 and X2 may have inputs routed to them,
but are not armed and will not be recorded.
4.
Exit the Track Setup Menu by pressing the INPUT key.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
The 788T can record up to eight tracks to all three available media simultaneously. Track counts of 8+ are
limited to two media only. When recording higher track counts, Sound Devices recommends using hard
drives and high speed UDMA CompactFlash cards.
Master Gain Levels
The master gain levels are controlled independently for the Left and Right tracks and for the X1 and
X2 Aux Tracks. Levels can be attenuated from 0 to -60 dB in .5 dB increments for each pair. Attenuation of the master gain levels is applied to the Tracks prior to recording. This allows the Sound Mixer
to adjust the overall mixed signal of all summed inputs routed to these tracks. Follow these steps to
adjust the master gain level.
1.
Press the Input key to access the Track Settings Window.
2.
Press the soft Levels (Play) key to access the Master Gain Level Window.
3.
Press the soft L/R (Rewind) or the soft AUX (Fast Forward) key to select the desired pair of tracks to be
attenuated.
4.
Turn the Multi Function Rotary Switch to attenuate the master gain level in .5 dB increments. Press in
on the Multi Function Rotary Switch to immediately return to unity gain (0 dB).
5.
Press the soft Tracks (Play) key to return to the Track Settings Window.
Sampling Rate and Bit Depth
The 788T generates uncompressed PCM audio WAV files in the Broadcast Wave File format at the
user-selected sampling rate and bit depth. The 788T LCD displays the remaining available recording time based on the sampling rate, bit depth, number of assigned tracks, and the selected storage
media’s available capacity. See Apendix A - Record Time Calculation.
Sampling Rate
When a sampling rate is selected for recording, all tracks are recorded at the selected sampling rate.
Sampling rates are selected among common rates from 32 kHz to 48.048 kHz. Additionally, nonstandard sampling rates can be applied when the 788T is word clocked from an external source
(clock sources between 32 kHz and 48.048 kHz). When recording off-speed sampling rates, files will
be stamped with the rate closest to the internally generated frequency.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Sampling Frequency and Audio Bandwidth
The sampling frequency is expressed in samples per second (hertz) and defines the number of times
in a second that the analog audio signal has been measured. Sampling frequency determines the
audio bandwidth, or frequency response, that can be represented by the digital signal. A quick estimate of the maximum bandwidth capable of being represented at a given sampling rate is maximum
analog frequency = sampling frequency/2. Higher sampling frequencies allow for wider audio
bandwidth.
The 788T generates the following sampling rates:
•
•
•
•
32 kHz
44.1 kHz
47.952 kHz
47.952kF - file stamped at 48 kHz
• 48 kHz
• 48.048 kHz
• 48.048kF -file stamped at 48 kHz
See Time Code for more information about the 47.952F and 48.048F rates.
Bit Depth
The 788T records at bit depths of either 16 or 24 bits. 24-bit recording provides greater dynamic
range and addition headroom for signal peaks relative to 16-bit recordings. 24-bit recording (versus
16-bit) is a significant benefit for field production audio tracks.
Bit Depth and Dynamic Range
Bit depth defines the digital “word length” used to represent a given sample. Bit depth correlates to
the maximum dynamic range that can be represented by the digital signal. Larger bit depths accommodate more dynamic range. A quick estimate of the maximum dynamic range capable of being
represented by a given word length is dynamic range ~= no. of bits x 6 dB. Bit depth is an exponential measure (exponent of 2), so as bit depth increases, the amount of data it represents increases
exponentially. The majority of field recording is done with 16-bit audio, therefore, each sample is represented by a digital word of 2^16 (65,536) possible values. 24-bit audio has a word length of 2^24
(16.7 million) possible values per sample.
The 788T has 24-bit analog-to-digital converters. To obtain 16-bit recording the 788T can be set to
dither 24-bit digital signals to 16-bit. The 788T uses a proprietary pseudo-random dither routine
for accurate bit rate reduction. Dither can be defeated in the Bit Depth Setup Menu option. Without
dither, 24-bit audio is truncated to 16-bit, meaning the least significant 8 bits are discarded.
Once a file is recorded its sampling rate and bit depth can not be changed in the recorder. The 788T
does not perform sample rate conversion or bit depth changes. File conversion must be done in another
environment, such as an audio workstation. Alternatively, a real-time analog transfer is often performed
instead of sample rate conversion.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Synchronization
A stable sample clock source is essential for high quality digital audio. Setups involving multiple
digital recording/playback devices often require that all devices are locked to a common clock reference to ensure they are synchronous i.e. run at the same speed and in phase with one another.
The 788T can act as a clock master, the provider of a reference clock, or as clock slave, where it locks
its internal sample clock generator to a received external master reference clock. Neglecting synchronization can result in poor audio quality, sample clock timing errors, and time code drift.
The 788T uses a rock-stable sample clock and PLL circuitry to generate its internal clock frequency.
The 788T disregards word clock, AES clock and video sync during playback.
Clock Master
The 788T provides a master clock reference via its WORD OUT BNC connector or via any of its balanced digital AES3 outputs. The difference between Word Out and AES is defined below.
Word Out
Word clock is purely a signal for sync purposes and contains no audio information. It is a square
wave signal with a frequency equal to the 788T’s internal sample rate. The 788T word clock output is
always active. Connect the 788T’s WORD OUT to the slave device’s WORD INPUT.
Digital Outputs
AES digital outputs provide both PCM audio data and reference clock within the same stream. A
compatible slave device is able to extract the reference clock from this stream at the same time as
receiving the digital audio. This is ideal for recording the digital outputs of the 788T to a slave device
with AES/AES3id inputs, only one cable is required to convey both signal and clock.
Clock Slave
The 788T is capable of locking its internal sample rate to incoming word clock, various video sync
formats, and AES digital audio sources. Cameras and video decks typically transmit video sync
whereas audio devices more often output word clock or digital audio.
When the 788T is slaved to an external sync source, be certain that the signal is stable. Loss of sync
signal during recording can cause the 788T to revert back to its internal set sampling frequency causing audio glitches and/or sync issues later in post.
The 788T’s sync reference is selected in the Rec: Sync Reference Setup Menu. The options for sync
sources are:
•
•
•
•
Internal
Word Clock
Video Sync
Digital Inputs 1-2
• Digital Inputs 3-4
• Digital Inputs 5-6
• Digital Inputs 7-8
Internal
The 788T disregards any external sync source and sample clocks are internally generated. When set
to Internal, the Sample Rate Converters will be applied to any incoming AES signal.
Sample Rate Converters
The 788T has high-quality, hardware sample rate converters (SRCs) on each of its AES/EBU digital
inputs. The SRCs apply to AES signals when the Setup Menu option REC: SYNC REFERENCE is set
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
to Internal. The 788T’s digital inputs accept AES signals with sampling rates from 32 kHz to 192 kHz.
With the sample rate converters each digital input can be fed with signals of any sample rate without
having to word clock all of the devices together.
The SRCs are only active when needed; when not needed they are deactivated. To use digital inputs
without the SRCs active, set the REC: SYNC REFERENCE Word Clock Input, Video Input, or to an
AES input pair.
Word Clock
The 788T locks to a valid word clock connected via the Sync Input connector. If a valid word clock
is detected, ‘W’ is displayed in the LCD. If a valid word clock is not detected, the input activity LED
rings will flash yellow and the Lock indicator, ‘W’ will not appear.
Video Sync
The 788T locks to any valid video sync source, including composite NTSC, PAL and Tri-level connected via the Sync Input connector. If a valid video sync is detected, ‘V’ is displayed in the LCD. If a
valid video sync is not detected, the input activity LED rings will flash yellow and the Lock indicator, ‘V’ will not appear.
Digital Inputs 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
The 788T can be set to lock and derive its clock from any valid digital input pair even if the equivalent numbered analog input pair has been selected for recording. For example, sync reference is
set to digital input 1-2 and inputs 1 and 2 are both set to MIC. If a valid digital input sync source is
detected, ‘D’ is displayed in the LCD. If a valid digital input is not detected, the Input Activity Ring
LED associated with the selected digital input sync source will flash yellow and the Lock indicator,
‘D’ will not appear.
If digital audio is connected to the 788T from more than one digital source, you must lock these
sources together to a common reference otherwise differences between the sources’ clocks will render their signals unusable. There is no sample rate conversion on the digital inputs when sync source
is set to Digital Inputs, Word Clock, or Video Sync.
Notes regarding Word Clock Input and Digital Input clock references
1. Loss of clock reference: If this occurs, the portion of the file recorded after the loss of ext clock reference may not play back at the proper speed. For reliability, we recommend you set the 788T to the same
sample frequency as the external clock source. Loss of the clock signal in this case will most likely cause a
short glitch in the file, but the file may still be usable since it will playback at nominally the correct speed.
2. The 788T LCD main display screen shows the sample clock rate of the incoming word clock or digital
input reference when locked (‘D’ or ‘W’ indicators are ON).
3. If multiple Digital Inputs are used, it is best practice to set the sync source to Internal. This will enable
the hardware Sample Rate Converters on the 788T Digital Inputs and ensure that all inputs are synchronized.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Outputs – Analog and Digital
The 788T has six analog and six digital outputs. Each of these outputs is assigned an audio source
independently, enabling the 788T to feed multiple outputs with unique program. Although there are
only six outputs, it is possible to output all eight inputs by using the Headphone Output together
with the six outputs.
The chart below shows the audio sources available for each of the Output Bus. The audio sources for
each output bus are selected in the Setup Menu.
Available Output Sources
Description
Input 1
Input 2
Input 3
Input 4
Input 5
Input 6
Input 7
Input 8
Inputs are assignable to each output bus.
Track L
Track R
Track A
Track B
Track C
Track D
Track E
Track F
Track G
Track H
Track X1
Track X2
Tracks are assignable to each output bus.
HP Mix Left
HP Mix Right
When inputs are selected as the source for the outputs, the state of recording or
playback activity has no effect on the output signal. This allows for uninterrupted
audio at the outputs.
Headphone monitor sources are assignable to each output bus.
Output Types
Audio signals routed to an output are sent to both the analog and digital outputs simultaneously.
For example, the audio source signal selected for Output 1 is sent to both analog output 1 and digital
output (AES) 1.
Analog Balanced Line Outputs 1-4
The analog line outputs are active-balanced line-level signals on Switchcraft-type TA3M locking connectors. The output level is a nominally 0 dBu at −20 dBFS. The line-level output can be attenuated in
the Setup Menu by up to 20 dB.
Analog Unbalanced Output 5-6
This is a two-channel output on a TRS 3.5 mm connector with nominal level of -10 dBV. This level
can be attenuated in the Setup Menu by up to 20 dB.
Balanced Digital AES Outputs 1-6
Balanced AES outputs 1-4 are on TA3 connectors on the right side panel. Balanced AES outputs 5-6
are on the DE-15 connector on the rear panel. See Connector Pin Assignments. These outputs are compatible with most AES3 and S/PDIF inputs.
The format for the AES3 output is selectable between professional AES and consumer SPDIF. In
either case the SCMS bit is not set. The output level of the digital outputs is not adjustable.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Headphone Output
The 788T headphone output is a flexible tool for monitoring audio in the field. The 788T allows the
user to monitor inputs and tracks in a wide range of combinations. MS stereo and B-format surround
decoding are also available as headphone monitoring options.
The headphone output is independent of the Output Buses and audio sources can be routed to headphones independent of routing assignments to output buses. The headphone output source is sent to
both the 1/4-inch and the 3.5mm TRS jacks.
The 788T is capable of driving headphones to extremely high sound pressure levels. Hearing experts
advise against exposure to high sound pressure levels for extended periods.
Selecting Headphone Sources
The headphone source is displayed on the main LCD screen (
). The 788T comes from the
factory with several preset headphone audio source combinations selected by the Multi-Function
Rotary Switch. These selections include inputs and tracks. Turn the Multi-Function Rotary Switch to
select among the available headphone monitoring sources.
Setting Headphone Source Options
The user can define which headphone routings will be available when turning the Multi-Function
Rotary Switch. Headphone monitoring sources can be set from various combinations of inputs and
tracks, including stereo MS decoding, and SoundField B-Format surround decoding. The order of
monitor sources is also user selectable.
To set the available headphone source options:
1.
Enter the HP: MONITOR MODES Setup Menu option. Once you enter the Monitor Modes menu you will
immediately be in slot-1.
2.
Turn the Multi-Function Rotary Switch to select the source you wish to appear first in your Headphone
monitor list.
3.
Once the chosen source appears, press the Multi-Function Rotary Switch or the soft key ENTER (Tone)
key to move to the next slot.
4.
Continue down the list to select the source for each slot in the list.
5.
Once all sources have been chosen, select DONE and press ENTER. This will exit the headphone monitor
mode setup. You can exit the selection process by pressing the Stop key or cancel (LCD Backlight) key at
any time.
If you press (done) in the first headphone slot, the 788T will select a single option (Tracks L, R) for headphone monitoring. The other factory presets will be erased.
Available audio sources for headphone monitoring include:
HP Sources
Description
Inputs 1,2
Inputs 3,4
Inputs 5,6
Inputs 7,8
Stereo monitoring of input pairs. Inputs 1, 3, 5, and 7 are assigned
to left headphone outputs; inputs 2, 4, 6, and 8 are assigned to right
headphone outputs.
Tracks L,R
Tracks A,B
Tracks C,D
Tracks E,F
Tracks G,H
Tracks X1,X2
Stereo monitoring of track pairs. Tracks L, A, C, E are assigned to left
headphone output; tracks R, B, D, and F are assigned to right headphone output. During playback, will play as track monitor.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
HP Sources
Description
Input 1
Input 2
Input 3
Input 4
Input 5
Input 6
Input 7
Input 8
Solo monitoring of selected input. This signal is sent to both sides of
the headphones.
Track L,
Track R
Track A
Track B
Track C
Track D
Track E
Track F
Track G
Track H
Track X1
Track X2
Solo monitoring of selected track. This signal is sent to both sides of
the headphones. During playback, will play as track monitor.
Inputs 1,2 (MS)
Inputs 3,4 (MS)
Inputs 5,6 (MS)
Inputs 7,8 (MS)
Stereo monitoring of discrete M (mid) and S (side) input pairs. Highlighted media is source of monitor program.
Tracks L,R (MS)
Tracks A,B (MS)
Tracks C,D (MS)
Tracks E,F (MS)
Tracks G,H (MS)
Tracks X1,X2 (MS)
Stereo monitoring of discrete M (mid) and S (side) track pairs.
Highlighted media is source of monitor program. During playback will
function as MS track monitor.
Inputs 1-4
Inputs 1-6
Inputs 1-8
Combinations of summed inputs appear in each ear.
Tracks LA, RB
Tracks LAC, RBD
Tracks LACE, RBDF
Tracks LACEG, RBDFH
Tracks LACEGX1, RBDFHX2
Tracks LRAB
Tracks LRABCD
Tracks LRABCDEF
Tracks LRABCDEFGH
Tracks LRABCDEFGHX1X2
Tracks LR
Tracks LRA
Tracks LRB
Tracks LRC
Tracks LRD
Tracks LRE
Tracks LRF
Tracks LRG
Tracks LRH
Tracks LRX1
Tracks LRX2
Combinations of summed tracks appear in each ear. Combinations
without commas (,) are dual mono and program appears in both left
and right headphone monitors.
Inputs B-format stereo
Tracks B-format stereo
The built-in SoundField B-format decoder uses three inputs to build a
left/right stereo signal for monitoring.
When tracks are monitored in headphones, audio assigned to the tracks is heard in headphones while
Recording. During Playback the recorded track audio is heard in headphones.
Input Solo (PFL)
Inputs are quickly soloed (pre fade listen) in headphones by pressing its corresponding Input Selector Switch. This will latch on the Input Settings Window and solo the input in the headphone monitor. To exit the Input Settings Window and return to the last headphone monitor program, press the
selected Input Selector Switch again.
If momentary action is desired, press and hold the Input Selector Switch for one second or longer.
If the Input Selector/Solo Switch is held for 5 or more seconds “Hold” will appear on the screen
and the soloed input will remain in the headphone monitor until either another headphone monitor mode has been selected with the Multi-Function Rotary Switch or with the Input Selector/Solo
Switch. If it is desired to access the Input Settings Window without soloing the input, disable the PFL
function in the Setup Menu option INPUT: PFL FUNCTION.
When a CL-8 is attached a user can quickly solo an input by pressing the A and B buttons from the
CL-8 Main View. See CL-8 for more details.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
If the selected input is stereo linked, both of the inputs will be soloed in the headphone monitor.
MS Stereo Monitoring
The MS stereo mode decodes discrete Mid-Side stereo signals to a left/right stereo signal for monitoring purposes. This allows for a proper stereo signal to be monitored in the field while discrete M
and S signals are recorded for later post production. For the MS decoder to operate properly, the Mid
signal is connected to either of the odd inputs (1, 3, 5, 7) and the Side signal is connected to the even
inputs (2, 4, 6, 8). The amount of stereo “spread” is fixed at a 50/50 percentage from Mid to Side
signal.
If MS is selected for input linking, do not use MS stereo monitoring. This would result in two MS decoders being inserted in the signal path. The resulting audio in the headphones would be the discrete M and
S signals!
SoundField B-Format Surround Monitoring
SoundField B-format is a four channel surround sound format generated by SoundField surround
microphones. The 788T can accept the four signals output from a SoundField microphone and record
each to its own track.
When recording four-channel B-format audio, the 788T headphone monitor can decode the B-format
signal into L/R stereo. The 788T constructs a stereo signal using the W, X, and Y signals of the Bformat. The Z-axis signal is not used. Similar to the 788T’s MS stereo monitoring, the stereo width is
fixed for headphone monitoring.
To record and monitor B-format signals, connect signals as follows:
SoundField
W signal
X signal
Y signal
Z signal
788T
input 1, track L
input 2, track R
input 3, track A
input 4, track B
Resulting File Name (for monophonic file type)
FILE _ 1.WAV
FILE _ 2.WAV
FILE _ 3.WAV
FILE _ 4.WAV
SoundField files generated in other recorders or software applications can be copied to CompactFlash or the 788T hard drive and can be played back and monitored in stereo. Make certain that
channel assignments follow the order above for proper headphone decoding. If multiple monophonic SoundField .WAV files are named using the “_W, _X, _Y, _Z” suffixes, the 788T will recognize that
these are multiple monophonic B-format files and will play them back in the proper track order.
The 788T can play back monophonic or polyphonic B-format files.
There are two B-format monitoring selections, one for inputs and one for tracks. They are listed as
INPUT B-FMT STEREO and TRACK B-FMT STEREO. For most recording and playback applications
the track monitor selection is appropriate. If the user wants to hear the inputs at all times, the input
monitor selection is appropriate.
Multi-Function Rotary Switch Behavior
From the Factory, pressing in on the Multi-Function Rotary Switch will automatically recall the headphone monitor source defined in the Setup Menu option HP: FAVORITE MODE. It can also be set to
quickly toggle through the available storage media from which the recorder will playback from, or it
can be disabled.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
• Disabled: pressing the Multi-Function Rotary Switch has no effect.
• Selects Favorite Mode: recalls the headphone source selected in HP: FAVORITE MODE.
• Playback Drive Select: selects which of the available storage media to playback from.
Headphone Favorite Selection
If Selects Favorite Mode is selected from the choices above, pressing the Multi-Function Rotary
Switch selects the monitor source defined in the Setup Menu option HP: FAVORITE MODE. This
feature is helpful to quickly return to a selected headphone monitoring source while recording or
playing.
Headphone Playback Mode
A single headphone source can be set to automatically activate during playback. All headphone
monitor combinations are available in the Setup Menu option HP: PLAYBACK MODE. No Change can
also be selected, which makes no change to the headphone selection during playback.
Headphone Warning Tones
The 788T generates audible beeps, or warning “bells”, in the headphone monitor when an error has
occurred. The specific error will be reported on the LCD. The output level of the warning bell can be
adjusted from Off or -60 to -12 dBFS in the Setup Menu option HP: WARNING BELL LEVEL.
Recording Start and Stop Tones
If enabled in the Setup Menu option HP: RECORD/STOP BELL, the start of recording can be indicated
audibly by a single, 440 Hz tone sent solely to headphones. When recording is stopped, two 220 Hz
tones will be sent to the headphones.
Low Battery Warning
Warning tones are sent to the headphones when either the attached battery or external power supply
voltage reaches their low warning levels (6.9 V for the attached Li-ion, 10.5 V or user-selectable in the
Setup Menu option POWER: EXT LOW BATT VOLT). The Low Battery Warning is three short 880 Hz
tones that are sent every 20 seconds.
If all warning tones are turned Off, no tones are sent to headphones, including the Low Battery
Warning.
Headphone Power Up Gain
The 788T’s headphone level is adjustable from Off, -40 dB to 26 dB in 2 dB increments. The Setup
Menu option HP: POWER UP GAIN sets the headphone level control upon start up to: Off, the Last
Gain setting used, or at Midpoint Gain (0 dB).
Headphone Source as Outputs
The left and right program of the headphone monitor can be selected as an output source. This allows the user to send the selected headphone monitor source to third party devices. The Headphone
Volume control has no effect on the signal at the outputs.
Metering and Display
The 788T features a 104 LED (8 x 13) Output Meter. The DSP-controlled output meter provides a
selection of ballistics and lighting intensities. Input Activity Ring LEDs are available on each of the
inputs indicating input level and clipping activity. In addition, a Headphone Peak LED is available
to indicate that clipping is occurring in the headphone monitor.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Output Meter
ARM
ARM
C
R
L
D
A
E
F
B
0
0
The meter uses energy efficient LEDs which are viewable in full sunlight. The 788T Output Meter is
unaffected by shock or extremes in temperature and humidity. Meter ballistics and peak hold duration are selectable in the Setup Menu.
The meter uses a non-linear scale which increases resolution in the most important part of the scale.
From −44 to −12 dBFS, each LED segment equals approximately 4 dB. From −12 to 0 dBFS, each segment equals 3 dB. The LED indicating 0 dBFS actually illuminates at -0.2 dBFS.
The LED Output Meter uses a tri-color scale, allowing the track levels to be easily viewed and monitored. The scale is separated by Green LEDs to indicate normal input to track activity from -44 to -12
dBFS, Orange LEDs to indicate a hotter input to track activity from -9 to -6 dBFS, and Red LEDs to
indicate that the input to track activity is approaching clipping from -3 to 0 dBFS.
The first column of meters always displays the Left, Right, A, and B tracks. The second column of
meters can be toggled to display either VU1 (Tracks C, D, E, and F) or VU2 (Tracks G, H, X1, and X2)
by pressing the LCD Backlight key.
Digital Meter View
All 12 track meters can be viewed at the same time from the Track Setup Window. To enter the Track
Setup Menu, press the INPUT key. The metering ballistics and peak hold time settings are defined in
the Setup Menu and apply to both the Front Panel Output Meter and the Digital Meter View.
Meter Ballistics
The output meter can be set to display any of three types of meter ballistics: VU, Peak, and
a combination of VU and Peak. The meter ballistics are selected in the Setup Menu option
METER: BALLISTICS.
VU (Volume Units)
Ballistics correspond closely to how the human ear perceives loudness and provides a good visual
indication of how loud a signal will be. In VU mode, the attack and decay of the meter signal is
300 msec. While giving a very good visual indication of perceived loudness, VU meters give poor information on actual signal peaks and thus not ideal for use during recording. In VU mode, the front
panel meter labeling is in volume units.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Peak Only
Peak-reading ballistics correspond to actual signal maximums, but don’t necessarily correspond to
perceived signal loudness. A peak meter has a near-instantaneous attack to display maximum signal
amplitude and a slow decay to allow the user to see them. Peak metering is essential for digital recording, since signal overload can cause immediate distortion. The peak meters front panel markings
are calibrated in dBFS, decibels relative to full-scale digital signal.
Peak/VU
Peak/VU mode will display VU and Peak level information simultaneously. In this mode, the perceived loudness (VU) is displayed as it is in VU mode, and the Peak level is indicated by the uppermost LED. With this combination the user gets the best of both VU and Peak metering by seeing both
the perceived loudness and the peaks of the signal at the same time. Peak/VU is the factory default.
Peak Hold Time
Peak-hold indicators are useful for metering in applications when an overload condition is unacceptable or when program material must not exceed a prescribed threshold. The Peak Hold Time is
user selectable in the Setup Menu option METER: PEAK HOLD TIME. The peak LED will hold its
position for the selected duration from 0 to 5 seconds in .1 second increments. This allows for easy
viewing of peak values that could otherwise go unnoticed.
Input Activity Ring LEDs
The LEDs surrounding the Input gain pots indicate the input activity for each input respectively. The
LEDs illuminate in various colors and intensities to represent the state of each input
LED Color
Description
Green
Analog and digital input signal presence. LED brightness intensifies as the amplitude of the input
signal increases.
Red
Input signal has reached the user-defined Input Peak Threshold. The threshold level is set in the
Setup Menu option Meter: Input Peak Threshold from -20 to -1 dBFS.
Solid Red
Input has been muted from the Input Settings Window for the respective input.
Yellow
Input limiter is attenuating. LED brightness intensifies as the input signal increases.
Flashing Yellow
Input type has been selected to digital but the input is not currently locked.
i.e. No digital input has been detected. All eight input activity LEDs will flash yellow when a video or
word clock reference has been selected but a valid source is not detected.
Solid Yellow
The 788T Slate Mic is active (CL-8 only).
If a digital input has been selected and the 788T detects a valid digital signal, the Input Ring LEDs
will follow the normal red and green LED behavior. The Input Activity Ring LEDs can be defeated
by color in the Setup Menu option METER: INPUT LED RING MODE.
Headphone Peak LED
The headphone circuit has an indicator for peak overload. Monitoring without a visual indication
of headphone clipping may mislead the operator into thinking that the record or playback signal is
distorting.
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Tone Oscillator
The tone oscillator can be used as an aid to lining up levels. Both tone level and frequency are user
selectable. Reference level is adjustable over a range of −40 to 0 dBFS in the Setup Menu option
TONE: LEVEL. Reference tone frequency is adjustable from 100 to 10,000 Hz in increments of 10 Hz
from the Setup Menu option TONE: FREQUENCY. Standard tone levels vary according to the practices
and needs of production and post-production, but are generally in the –20 to −12 dBFS range.
TONE key. Tone is only active while the TONE
The tone oscillator is activated by pressing the
key is pressed. Tone is routed where specified in the Setup Menu option TONE: MODE. Routing
choices include: Outputs only, Outputs and Tracks, Tracks only, or no tone routing (disabled). When
routed to Tracks, all selected record tracks will receive the tone signal. Tone can only be recorded to
the head of an audio file. To record tone, press the TONE key and continue to hold it down while
starting to record. Subsequent presses of the TONE key are locked out to prevent tone from being
inadvertently recorded.
LCD Contrast & LED Brightness
LCD contrast is controlled in the Setup Menu option LCD: CONTRAST. From the factory, the contrast
is set to 50%, suitable for most viewing conditions. Contrast can be adjusted from 0 to 100% in 1%
increments.
LED brightness is continuously adjustable from low to high. To adjust the LED brightness level, hold
down the LCD Backlight key then turn the Multi-Function Rotary Switch. In Stealth Mode the LEDs
are toggled On and Off with the LCD backlight key. Enable Stealth Mode in the Setup Menu option
METER: STEALTH MODE.
LCD Backlight
To toggle the LCD and Front Panel Soft Key backlight press and hold the LCD Backlight
key
and press in on the Multi-Function Rotary Switch. Backlighting is suitable in low or no ambient light
situations. By Factory Default the LCD backlight will be White in Standby, Green in Playback, and
Red in Record Modes. The user can defeat the LCD backlight by color in the Setup Menu option
LCD: BACKLIGHT MODE.
White/Green/Red
This is the Factory Default setting. The backlight will illuminate White in Standby, Green during
Playback, and Red during Recording.
Red on Record Only
The LCD backlight will illuminate Red during Recording and White for Standby and Playback..
Green on Play Only
The LCD backlight will illuminate Green during Playback and White for Standby and Record..
White Only
The LCD backlight will remain White at all times.
Time Display and Record Indication
The position of the A-time numbers and time code numbers can be exchanged in the Setup Menu option TIME CODE: DISPLAY MODE. When Big Time Code is selected, the time code value is displayed
in the main numeric display. If time code is turned Off, the A-time is displayed as large numbers,
even when Big Time Code is selected.
reversed numbers indicating that recording is active
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
To provide for additional visual indication that recording is in process, the big numerals can
be set to reverse contrast or to flash during record. This is selected in the Setup Menu option
REC: RECORD INDICATOR.
CL-8 Metering and Display
The CL-8 is an optional mixing control surface for the 788T. The CL-8 displays Post Fade Signal
Activity, Left/Right track routing, Aux 1/Aux 2 track routing (pre or post fade), Input Limiter status,
Input Polarity status, High-Pass Filter status, and Solo status. See CL-8 Controller for more details.
Time Code
The 788T holds accurate time code for up six hours between battery changes using its internal, Li-Ion
time code battery. After six hours without power, the 788T reverts to a slightly less-precise time-ofday crystal to maintain the date/time of the unit. This time code battery is charged from internal or
external power whenever the 788T is powered up.
If the time-of-day clock is reset during the production day or if the time code mode is changed from
24 hour run to another mode and back, the time code value will change. You must re-jam all time
code devices to ensure proper synchronization.
File-based recorders place a single time code stamp in the BEXT and iXML chunks of an AES31
(Broadcast WAV) file. The 788T generates SMPTE time code from this number and extrapolates it
based on the time code frame rate for playback.
All files generated by the 788T have time code numbers begin on the 0 frame (or 02 in DF modes). If
necessary, pre-roll is dynamically applied to accomplish this. This simplifies synchronization in post-production. Furthermore, all files end on the 0 frame such that a file’s duration is always an integer number
of seconds long. If necessary, post-roll is applied to accomplish this.
Frame Rate
A single time code frame rate is selected in the Setup Menu option TIMECODE: FRAME RATE.
Sound Devices strongly recommends that the appropriate frame rate be confirmed with Post Production
prior to the start of production.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
The 788T supports all of the common production time code frame rates, including:
• 23.976 – This frame rate is most often used in productions shooting with Sony high definition
video cameras. Counts 0.1% slower than real time.
• 24 – Frame rate of standard film. Sometimes, it is also used in high-definition video production.
• 25 – The frame rate of PAL video. Most often used in video and film production in Europe and
other PAL based nations.
• 29.97 – The frame rate of NTSC color video. Most often used in the USA and other NTSC based
nations. Counts 0.1% slower than real time.
• 29.97DF – The frame rate of NTSC video modified to match real time. Drop frame time code is
primarily used in the NTSC broadcast industry where it is often required that the time code of
finished program material reflects actual real time duration.
• 30 – Originally, the standard frame rate for American black and white television. Today, it is
most often used to sync sound to film where transfer to NTSC video is expected.
• 30DF – This is a rarely used non-standard frame rate. Do not use unless specifically requested
by production. Counts 0.1% faster than real time.
• 30+ – This setting is specific to Sound Devices recorders. Records at 48.048 sampling rate at 30
frames per second but stamps the file at 48kHz, 30 frames per second.
F Sampling Rate Modes
48.048k and 48.048kF
The 48.048kF mode (F stands for fake, faux, Fostex—take your pick) is a specific compatibility mode
for use with the Fostex DV40 software (1.74 and previous), Avid, Final Cut Pro, and other post-production environments that do not recognize audio files written at 48.048 kHz. In this mode files are
recorded at a 48.048 kHz sampling rate but are stamped at 48 kHz. When played, they will play back
0.1% slower than real time.
One use for the 48.048kF mode is to force a 0.1% speed reduction (pull down) of audio to match
MOS-telecined film (24 fps-to-NTSC) in non-linear edit systems, such as Avid or Final Cut Pro. Since
the file is stamped as a 48 kHz file, the edit system will play it back at 48 kHz and not at 48.048 kHz.
This “audio pull down” will match the transferred picture without the need for an intermediate step
through other software to create the pull down.
The time code frame rate (actual recording rate) is forced to 30 ND in 48.048kF mode. The LCD display will show 30 ND during recording. No other frame rate is available in 48.048kF mode.
the file is recorded at 48.048 k, 30 ND
The audio file, however, is stamped with a 29.97 ND frame rate, along the 48 kHz sampling rate. It
will appear as if the file was originally recorded at a 48 kHz sampling rate at a TC rate of 29.97 ND.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
on playback, file appears at 48 k, 29.97 ND
Fostex DV40
When using files recorded in the 48.048kF mode in with a DV40 with early software, set the DV40
time code frame rate to 29.97ND. Time code stamps will properly match the original time code start
times.
47.952k and 47.952kF
Both 47.952 and 47.952kF settings use a record sampling rate of 47.952 kHz, 0.1% lower than 48
kHz. The 47.952kF mode, however, identifies the file as being recorded at 48 kHz. Additionally, in
47.952kF mode, the time code rate is restricted to 29.97ND, while the file is identified as 30ND.
47.952F mode is useful in applications where the 788T is recording in high-def environments with
cameras at 23.97 and post production is using a straight 24 frame session.
Time Code Modes
The 788T includes the following time code modes:
Off
The time code generator is disabled. The front panel time code display is blank.
Free Run:
The internal time code generator runs continuously without regard to the Record mode. Any time
code value can be used as the start value by “jamming value” in the jam menu.
Record Run
The time code generator runs only when the 788T is recording. Time code in this mode defaults to
00:00:00:00 at power-up. When switching to Record Run from another mode, the internal generator
will stop at the last number generated. A user-defined value can be jammed into the internal generator from the jam menu.
Free Run Jam Once
The onboard time code generator will re-jam from external time code whenever a valid, running
time code signal is connected to the TC input. Similar to Free Run mode, the generator runs continuously without regard to Record mode. For a jam to occur, the time code signal must be disconnected
and re-connected to the time code input. Free Run Jam Once is useful when using the recorder as a
slave, although one of the External TC modes may be more appropriate for slaved operation.
24 Hour Run
Identical to Free Run with the exception that the generator will automatically jam itself from the
time-of-day clock on power-up. The generator will also re-jam if the time-of-day clock is reset. Once
jammed, the generator will run continuously from the time code clock, not the time-of-day clock.
Ext TC
The internal time code generator follows an external time code signal appearing at the time code
input. In all of the external time code modes, the time code value set on the 788T appears as the
recorded file’s time code rate value.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Ext TC/cont
The internal time code generator follows an external time code signal appearing at the time code input. If the external time code is removed, the internal generator continues to run to preserve continuous time code. Useful for time code transmission over RF where RF “hits” may interrupt time code.
Ext TC-Auto Record
The internal time code generator follows the external time code signal appearing at the time code
input. When external code advances, the 788T enters Record mode automatically. When the external
code is stopped, the 788T generator pauses and recording is stopped. This is appropriate when dualsystem sound is used with video cameras set for Rec Run time code. The video camera will function
as master time code and the recorder “transport” will follow the video camera transport.
Ext TC/cont-Auto Record
The internal time code generator follows the external time code signal appearing at the time code
input. When external code advances, the 788T enters Record mode automatically. When the external
code is stopped, the 788T generator pauses and recording is stopped. If the external time code is
removed the internal generator continues to run to preserve continuous time code. Useful for time
code transmission over RF where RF “hits” may interrupt time code. This is appropriate when dualsystem sound is used with video cameras set for Rec Run time code. The video camera will function
as master time code and the recorder will follow.
In Free Run Jam Once and all four external time code modes, time code is recalculated, “back stamped,”
when external static time code advances after the 788T begins recording. If external time code does not
advance, the file will be stamped with the stopped time code number. Back stamping the file allows the
audio time code to properly correspond to picture time code if sound rolls before picture in a video Rec
Run environment.
Time Code Hold Off
In the industry there are a wide variety of time code generators. Time code streams are standard
from device to device; however, the start and stop sequence of the time code stream can differ.
Because of this, the 788T recorders were susceptible to generating unintentional takes when in
EXT TC - Auto Record or EXT TC/CONT - AUTO RECORD modes.
Time Code Hold Off is designed to eliminate unintentional takes from occurring. The user can now
determine a duration in which a valid external time code signal has to be detected before the recorder generates a new take. The value of Time Code Hold Off needed is dependent on the start and stop
sequence of the master time code source.
To use the Time Code Hold Off feature:
1.
Access the Setup Menu option TIMECODE: HOLD OFF.
2.
Set a value between 0 and 8 seconds in .1 second increments using the soft Up and Down Arrow (Menu
and HDD) keys or the Multi Function Rotary Switch. 2.0 Seconds is the factory default.
3.
Save the selected value by pressing the soft Check Mark (Tone) key or by pressing in on the Multi Function Rotary Switch.
4.
Exit the Setup Menu by pressing the soft X (Brightness) key or the Stop key.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
5.
Begin rolling time code from the master time code source.
6.
The 788T recorder will display the Record Pending message immediately after detecting a time code
signal.
7.
When the selected Hold Off value has elapsed, the 788T will begin recording.
Things to consider when using Time Code Hold Off:
• This feature only applies to EXT TC - AUTO RECORD and
EXT TC/CONT - AUTO RECORD modes.
• If Pre-Roll is set, it will be applied. Pre-Roll will only capture audio from the initial detection of
a time code signal. If no Pre-Roll is selected, the file will begin after the Hold Off time expires.
It is best practice to set Pre-Roll, in the Setup Menu option REC: PRE-ROLL TIME, to a value
greater than the selected Hold Off value. This ensures that audio is captured from the moment
a time code signal is detected and unintentional files triggered by short bursts of time code are
not generated.
Jam Menu
external time code/u-bit value received by 788T
press to jam
menu
selection
current 788T time code/u-bit value
Time code setup is managed in the Setup Menu option TIME CODE: JAM MENU. To quickly enter the
key and the MENU
key. In this menu, the top of
Jam Menu simultaneously press the HDD
the display shows the value of signal present on the time code input and the bottom of the display
shows the currently set time code value. In addition, the 788T displays the frame rate of the incoming time code and the current frame rate setting of the 788T.
The 788T time code generator can be set in three ways.
Jam RX TC
When the JAM RX TC menu item is highlighted in the jam menu, the external time code, user bits,
and frame rate are shown at the top of the LCD screen; the 788T internal generator, user bits, and
frame rate are shown at the bottom of the screen. To jam the 788T from an external value, press the
JAM soft key (TONE key) or the Multi-Function Rotary Switch. The screen will display JAMMING.
Once the 788T is jammed to the external time code, the external and internal numbers will match and
run in sync.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
no valid time code is received
Make certain that the external time code source appears in the time code jam menu. If the 788T does
not receive valid time code from the sending source the jam menu displays lines in place of numbers.
Identical to the Ambient Recording series of time code products, the 788T time code generator can “cross
jam” differing frame rates. The 788T will cross jam time code at the top of the second for phase-accurate
(the 00 frames will match) time code at the set frame rate.
Jam Zeros
This menu selection resets the internal generator to zero.
value to jam, or zeros
press to jam
menu selection
788T current timecode value
Jam Value
Press the enter soft key (TONE key) or the Multi-Function Rotary Switch button to jam the userentered time code start value into the internal generator.
Edit Value
This menu allows the user to set any valid time code value (00:00:00:00–23:59:59:29) for entry with
the jam value selection above. The initial screen of this menu shows the currently set value as well
as the current time code setting of the 788T. Press the Multi-Function Rotary Switch or the enter key
(tone key) to enter into edit mode. The user can set the time code numbers in pairs (hours, minutes,
seconds and frames). Once (DONE) is selected the value is available to jam into the internal generator
with the jam value selection.
A value is not jammed into the 788T time code generator until JAM VALUE is selected.
User Bits
The 788T has seven user-selectable user bit modes. Time code user bits are a portion of the time code
data which can be allocated however the user chooses. Commonly, user bits carry information such
as the date, take, sound roll, or camera roll number.
User bits are edited from the EDIT U-BIT selection in the jam menu. Press the enter soft key (TONE
key) or the Multi-Function Rotary Switch to enter user bit edit mode. The screen will show the format and setting of the user bits. Using the Multi-Function Rotary Switch or the Up and Down Arrow
soft keys, user bit digits can be edited (in pairs). Once DONE is selected, the user bits are set. If editing
is not available in the selected user bit mode “NO USER EDITS“ will appear in the screen.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
NTSC Standard Def Video Production
NTSC video uses a frame rate of 29.97 frames per second. Unfortunately, that leaves 108 frames per
hour unaccounted. To keep 29.97 time code in sync with “clock” time, the concept of “drop frame”
was devised. Two frames are dropped at the top of each minute not divisible by 10. 54 drops per
hour x 2 frames = 108 frames per hour.
To sync the 788T to a video camera, first determine if the camera is in drop frame or non-drop frame
mode. If you, the DP or the producer are unsure about what setting to use, check with post-production, if possible.
As a rough guideline, video for NTSC broadcast is drop-frame. Whether at drop or non-drop rates, make
certain all time code devices are at the same rate.
1.
Set the 788T to either 29.97DF or 29.97 respectively.
2.
Jam the camera using a LEMO-5 to BNC adapter cable connected to the time code input on the video
camera.
3.
Switch the camera to free run time code. The 788T time code should appear in the time code display on
the camera.
4.
Disconnect the time code cable.
The camera and recorder time code should now be running in sync. Check it after roughly 5 minutes
to be certain synchronization is maintained.
Video cameras are notorious for time code instability when powered down. If the video camera must be
shut down, re-jam it when it is powered back up.
Recording
Recording and Playback functions are quite similar to that of tape-based machines. The flexibility of
file-based recording provides control not possible with tape-based recorders.
Recording
The largest, most easily accessed control on the 788T is its REC key. Recording takes
priority over all activity except for disk formatting, disk speed tests, and file transfers. The 788T will
immediately enter Record mode whenever the REC key is pressed. If the storage media selected is
not ready to begin recording a new file, the REC key will flash red and the LCD will display Record
Pending until the recording has begun.
When recording, the REC key, adjacent red LED, and the LCD backlight will all illuminate red to indicate that the unit is in Record mode. The LCD backlight illuminates red in record mode by factory
default, this can be defeated in the Setup Menu option LCD: BACKLIGHT MODE.
Ultra reliable 12-track recording is further enhanced by the 788T’s ability to prevent file corruption
even in the event of power failure during recording. The 788T achieves this by automatically updating the WAV file header information every 20 seconds. At most, the last 20 seconds of recording
might be lost.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
If no tracks are armed to record, the 788T will not enter Record Mode. Make certain that at least one
record track is armed for recording.
While recording, the POWER, FAST FORWARD, REWIND, PLAY and TONE keys are disabled. See
Panel Lock to engage Panel Lock during recording. Stop recording by pressing and holding the STOP
key. The STOP key must be held for 150 msec or greater to end recording. Although you can enter
the Setup Menu during recording, menu items that affect recording are lined out in the menu list.
During recording, subsequent presses of the REC key can perform one of three Setup-Menu-selected
actions:
• no action,
• new cue - cue markers are set within the file being written,
• new file - a new file is started with each press of the REC key, the take counter increases by one.
Pre-Record Buffer
To prevent missing record cues or up-cutting takes, the 788T has a pre-record (or pre-roll) buffer.
When active, pre-record begins recording at a set number of seconds preceding the REC key being
pressed.
Record buffering is disabled when the time code mode is set to Record Run, External Time Code
Auto Record, and External Time Code Continuous Auto Record. This prevents possible overlapping
time code numbers between adjacent files.
Media Select
The 788T can record up to eight tracks to all three available media (internal hard drive, CompactFlash, and external hard drives) simultaneously. Track counts 8+ are limited to two media only.
When recording higher track counts, Sound Devices recommends using hard drives and high speed
UDMA CompactFlash cards.
Failure During Recording
In the event of a storage media failure, the specific error will be indicated on the LCD and warning
bells in the headphone monitor. Possible causes of media failure include, a hard drive in severe motion which results in recording errors, a CompactFlash card filling up while recording, or an external
DVD-RAM that can’t keep up with the chosen data rate, track count, or file type. If more than one
drive is selected for recording, the remaining drives will continue recording without failure.
Playback
The 788T has high-resolution playback circuitry and is appropriate for any reference audio application. Any file recorded by the 788T can be played back. In addition, MP2, MP3, and WAV files can be
copied to the storage media from a computer can be played back. This is useful when using the 788T
as a high-resolution playback device. In Playback mode, the LCD backlight will illuminate green by
factory default, this can be defeated in the Setup Menu option LCD: BACKLIGHT MODE.
The 788T plays back the last recorded audio file unless another file is selected. There are two ways to
select another file for playback. To select another file in the current record directory, from stop mode,
push either the FastForward or reverse key to put the 788T into play-stop mode. The filename display will begin flashing and the FAST FORWARD and REWIND keys are used to step through files
available in the current record directory. To select a file in an alternate directory, press the HDD key
to enter the media directories. Navigate to the appropriate directory. Select the file that is desired for
play back with the Multi-Function Rotary Switch and press the PLAY key.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
The current playback media is indicated by the highlighted (white type on black background) media
descriptor on the left hand side of the main LCD display. Regardless of the directory selected for
playback, when the REC key is pressed, the 788T will revert to the directory determined by the
REC: MEDIA SELECT and FILE: FOLDER OPTIONS Setup Menu settings.
AutoPlay
The 788T can be set to play back all valid audio files in a directory. Files will play back in
their order in the directory. Varios autoplay options can be set in the Setup Menu option
PLAY: AUTOPLAY MODE:
•
•
•
•
Disabled – auto playback is Off
Play all – all files in the directory will play, then stop when all files have been played
Repeat one – the selected file will play back continuously until stopped by the user
Repeat all – all files in the directory will play in succession, then repeat until the Stop key is
pressed.
Audio File Formats
The 788T records audio to the industry-standard Broadcast Wave file format, either monophonic or
polyphonic. Additionally, the 788T will also playback files in the WAV, MP2, or MP3 formats. The
788T will also read files with the .BWF extension.
.WAV
The 788T writes AES-31 Broadcast Wave formatted files. The audio files created by the 788T include
additional information (Metadata) in the file’s header, BEXT (Broadcast Audio Extension) and iXML
data chunks. See Appendix 2 – Metadata Implementation. Software that does not recognize these additional broadcast wave data chunks will simply ignore them.
File Type
The 788T has two file type options for recording, WAV mono and WAV poly. Select the file type in
the Setup Menu option REC: FILE TYPE.
Monophonic
When WAV Mono is selected, the 788T will generate a separate audio file for each recorded track.
The mono files generated by the 788T have file names similar to T01_1.WAV and T01_2.WAV. The file
name suffixes, _1 and _2, identify the track number of the file. If a take contains 10+ mono tracks the
tracks will be suffixed with _A (10), _B (11), _C (12). Monophonic files can be combined into polyphonic files using Sound Devices Wave Agent software utility.
Polyphonic
When WAV Poly is selected, the 788T will generate one audio file for each take. All recorded tracks
are interleaved into this single file. The tracks are still isolated and can be separated into monophonic
files using Sound Devices Wave Agent software utility.
Take Management
A Take is a single recording which is composed of one or more audio files.
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Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
For polyphonic wav file recordings, a take is represented by a single polyphonic file generated at the
time of recording. The single polyphonic file contains all the tracks of the take. In this case, since the
take is represented by this one file, its name is the same as the file’s name.
In the 788T, a polyphonic take/file name consists of a scene name, take number, and a file extension.
For example, for scene S01, take T01, the polyphonic file name and take name are both S01T01.wav.
For monophonic wav file recording, a take is represented by a group of monophonic files generated
at the time of recording. Each monophonic file represents an individual track of the take. In this case,
since the take is represented by several files, its take name is the same as any of the constituent files’
names except with the track number suffix is replaced by ‘_X’.
In the 788T, a monophonic file name consists of a scene name, take number, track number suffix and
a file extension. See Appendix 3 – File Naming. For example, for scene S01, take T01, comprising of 4
tracks, the monophonic file names are S01T01_1.wav, S01T01_2.wav, S01T01_3.wav, S01T01_4.wav,
and the take name is S01T01_X.wav.
S01T01_1.WAV
scene
number
take
number
mono
file
designator
extension
Scene Name/Numbering
Scene names are selected for use from a scene name list. This list is managed in the Setup Menu option REC: SCENE NAME/NUMBER. Any number of scene name lists can be generated and these can be
made up of any number of scene names. The advantage of scene name lists is that frequently used
scene names can be compiled before production starts.
Scene names are made with alphanumeric characters, including “_ ” and “-” and can be any length
between zero (0) and nine (9) characters. Scene numbers help to match audio with the corresponding
scene in a production. Scene names can also be used to identify other items, including roll number,
recording date, artist name or any other descriptor as required.
Scene names are user-selected in the Setup Menu and do not change until changed by the user.
To change scene numbers:
1.
Enter the user menu and navigate to the Scene Name/Number option.
2.
Use the REWIND (<<) and FAST FORWARD (>>) soft keys to move among characters. Use the PLAY
key to delete characters. Characters are entered from left to right and deleted from right to left.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
3.
Use the Multi-Function Rotary Switch or the Up and Down Arrow soft keys to choose characters. Press
the Multi-Function Rotary Switch or press the FAST FORWARD key to save the character and move to
the next position.
4.
To save the scene name, press the soft Check Mark (TONE) key or press in on the Multi-Function Rotary
Switch without selecting a character. After the ninth character is entered, the scene name is automatically saved.
If all characters are removed, no scene name will be written to files.
Scene Name Incrementing/Decrementing
Scene Names can be quickly incremented from the main screen by pressing and holding the Stop
key and then the Fast Forward key. See Front Panel Button Shortcuts. Scenes will be incremented by
either alpha characters (A,B,C...) or numeric digits (1,2,3...). This is selectable by the user in the Setup
Menu option REC: SCENE INCREMENT MODE.
To increment the Scene Name/Number from the Take List.
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1.
Press the HDD key to access the Take List.
2.
Scroll to the top of the Take List and highlight the next take, which is indicated by the letter n.
3.
Press the soft Scene +/- (Fast Forward) key to enter the Scene increment/decrement screen.
4.
Press the soft Scene + (Fast Forward) key to increment the scene name from WILDCAT1T02.WAV to
WILDCAT2T01.WAV.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
5.
Press the soft Done (Play) key.
6.
The name of the next take will be displayed on the top line indicated by the n.
Take Numbers
Take numbers are integers between 01 and 99,999, with or without preceding zeros, which increase by one each time a new file is recorded. Take numbers can be set with or without a take
separator, such as the character “-” or “T”. The take separator can be used to clearly identify
the take number within the file name. Take numbers are managed in the Setup Menu option
REC: TAKE NAME/NUMBER. Take numbers can be incremented and decremented in the Take List.
If the 788T detects a take/file with the same name in the destination folder, a letter suffix, starting
with “A” is added to the take/file name, before the extension.
To change take numbers:
1.
Enter the Setup Menu and navigate to the Take Name/Number option.
2.
Use the REWIND (<<) and FAST FORWARD (>>) soft keys to move among decimal places and to jump
to the single alphanumeric take spacer character. Use the PLAY key to reset the take number to 1. Characters are entered from left to right and deleted from right to left.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
3.
The Multi-Function Rotary Switch or the soft keys are used to choose characters/numbers. Press the
soft Check Mark (TONE) key or press in on the Multi-Function Rotary Switch to save the character and
move to the next position.
From the Setup Menu the action for take resetting is controlled by the following options:
•
•
•
•
Never – take numbers do not reset
When scene is changed – take resets when scene name is changed
When daily folder is changed – takes reset on new day
Either scene or daily– takes reset on either change
Take Number Incrementing/Decrementing
Take increments and decrements can be made in the Take List. To increment and decrement takes.
1.
Press the HDD key to access the Take List.
2.
Scroll to the top of the Take List and highlight the next take, which is indicated by the letter n.
3.
Press the soft Take +/- (Fast Forward) key to enter the Take Increment/Decrement screen.
4.
Press the soft Take + (Fast Forward) key to increment or the Take - (Rewind) key to decrement the take.
5.
Press the soft Done (Play) key.
6.
The name of the next take will be displayed on the top line indicated by the letter n.
7.
Exit the Take List by pressing X.
8
Press and hold the STOP key to display the next incremented take’s file name.
Indicates active take
Indicates next upcoming take
False Take Control
To identify a take as a False Take, perform the following:
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v. 1.60
1.
Press the STOP key to end the recording.
2.
Wait for the file to finish writing, the activity LED will turn from orange to green.
3.
Simultaneously press the STOP and REWIND keys to be prompted to delete the most recent take.
4.
Press the soft Check Mark (TONE) key to delete the take.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Alternatively, the last take can be identified as a False Take from within the Take List. This can be
done by decrementing the take number to match the most recent recorded take’s filename.
Files that have been confirmed as false takes are moved to the FALSETAKES folder. When recording to internal hard drive, CompactFlash, and external FireWire storage devices, files determined
as False Takes will be moved to the FALSETAKES folder on each storage media that the file has
been written to. This folder sits in the drive root. False Takes will remain on the drive until the
FALSETAKES folder is emptied.
Emptying the False Take Folders
Files that have been moved to the False Take folders can be permanently deleted from each media
in the Drive Options Menu by selecting EMPTY TRASH. Each drive has its own False Take folder and
they are permanently deleted independently. Once the False Take folder has been emptied, any files
it contains are permanently deleted and cannot be recovered. See Emptying the Trash for more details.
Track Naming
Each track in a file, whether monophonic or polyphonic, can be named with a unique, descriptive
track name. Descriptive track names such as ‘radio mic 1’, ‘boom 2’ or ‘John Smith’ are more helpful
to editors than track numbers. Track names with up to 26 characters are managed in the Setup Menu
option REC: TRACK NAMES. The track names selected prior to recording are stored in the Broadcast
Wave Extension (BEXT) data as well as in the iXML data.
Take List
All metadata edits and entries performed in the Take List and are applied across all available media that contain the select take. The Take List is accessed via the Setup Menu option
FILE: VIEW TAKE LIST or by simply pressing the HDD key.
The File Viewer (Drive Directory) (formerly accessed by pressing the HDD key) is now accessed by pressing the soft DRV (HDD) key from within the Take List or via the Setup Menu option FILE: VIEW FILES.
The Take List contains a list of every Polyphonic or Monophonic take that has been recorded by the
788T. Takes must be recorded with Wildcat Beta or greater in order to view them in the Take List.
The name of the take is displayed on the left hand side of the Take List. The right hand side of the
Take List displays additional file information. The type of information displayed can be toggled by
pressing in on the Multi Function Rotary Switch. Each press will toggle between the following information.
• Beginning time code stamp
• Scene name
• Time of file creation
• Drives that contain the file
• Date of file creation
• Folder that contains the file
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
The following functions are performed within the Take List.
• Increment/Decrement Scene and Takes
• Edit metadata and rename files
Take Edit Menu
From this menu, the user can perform the following edit operations while the recorder is in Standby
or Record modes:
• Notes
• Tape (Roll)
• Rename
• Set Copy Flag
• Circle
• Clr Copy Flag
• Project
• Delete (sends file to the Trash)
• Scene
• Rename Tracks
• Take
The Delete option is removed from the Take Edit menu for the take that is currently being recorded.
Follow these steps to access the Take Edit Menu.
1.
Enter the Take List by pressing the HDD key.
2.
Choose any Take from the Take List.
3.
Press the soft Edit (PLAY) key to enter the Take Edit Menu.
Notes
Notes can be added to a Take to describe its contents. BEXT and iXML support notes fields. To add
notes to a Take:
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1.
Enter the Take List by pressing the
HDD key.
2.
Highlight the desired file.
3.
Press the soft EDIT (Play) key to access the Take Edit Menu.
4.
Select Notes
5.
Enter text in the Notes field using the Multi-Function Rotary Switch or a USB Keyboard.
6.
Press the soft Check Mark (TONE) key or simultaneously press the CTRL and Enter keys from a USB
Keyboard to save Notes. Pressing the soft X (LCD BACKLIGHT) key or Esc on a USB Keyboard will
cancel the Notes entry.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Entering notes using an external USB keyboard is quicker than the Multi-Function Rotary Switch.
Renaming Takes
Takes can be renamed in the Take Edit Menu during and after recording. Renaming a take renames
its associated files and updates their embedded metadata. Edits made to the Take name are applied
across all media and associated mono files. The new name can be up to 26 characters in length including the .WAV extension.
Duplicate Takes
With the ability to rename files and edit scene names directly from the 788T, it is possible to generate files with duplicate file names. In this event, the 788T will detect that a file with the same name
already exists and will ask the user if a duplicate file should be created. If the user selects to do so,
the resulting file name will be pre-fixed with a +. If this occurs for more than two files, an additional
+ will be added respectively for every file altered.
Circle Take
Take names can be altered to include the “@” symbol preceding the file name. This can be used to
highlight a take as a “Circled Take”. Circled Takes are often used to identify good takes for transferring. Circle Take information is also embedded within the BEXT and IXML data chunks.
To Circle or uncircle a take, perform the following steps:
1.
Press the STOP key to end the recording.
2.
Press the HDD key to enter the Take List.
3.
Scroll among files to highlight the file as a Circled Take.
4.
Press the soft EDIT (PLAY) key to enter the Take Edit Menu.
5.
Highlight and select the Circle option from the list. This will toggle the Circle indication on and off.
Project
Edits can be made to the Project field during and after recording. The Project field by default is the
name of the Top-Level folder defined in the Setup Menu option FILE: FOLDER OPTIONS. Project
metadata is embedded within the BEXT and IXML data chunks.
Scene
Scene name edits can be made during and after recording. Any changes to the Scene name are applied to both the file name and the Scene tag in the iXML and bEXT chuncks.
Take
Take number edits can be made during and after recording. Any changes to the Take are applied to
both the file name and the Take tag in the iXML and bEXT chunks.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Tape (Roll)
Edits can be made to the Tape (Roll) iXML tag during and after recording. The Tape (Roll)
field by default is the name of the Mid-Level folder defined in the Setup Menu option
FILE: FOLDER OPTIONS. Tape (Roll) metadata is embedded within the BEXT and IXML data
chunks.
Set and Clear Copy Flags
Copy Flags are useful for selecting various takes to be copied from one media to another. By
default, Takes recorded by the 788T have their Copy Flag set to On. If the Setup Menu option
FILE: COPY FLAG RESET is enabled the Copy Flags will automatically clear after the file has been
copied from one media to another. See File Copying Among Available Media.
Deleting Takes
Takes and their associated files are now deleted from the Take List Edit Menu. Deleted files are sent
to the respective media’s Trash Folder. The Trash Folder is emptied via the Drive Directory Options
Menu.
To send a Take to the Trash Folder.
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v. 1.60
1.
Enter the Take List by pressing the HDD key.
2.
Highlight the file that you wish to delete.
3.
Press the soft Edit (Play) key to access the Edit Menu.
4.
Highlight and select the Delete option.
5.
The Confirm Take Delete window appears. Select which drives the file should be deleted from using the
soft CF, HDD, and EXT (Rewind, Play, and Fast Forward) keys. The take will be deleted from any drive
that is highlighted.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
For example, if the file WILDCAT2T01.WAV is to only be sent to the EXT drive Trash Folder, press the
soft CF and HDD (Rewind and Play) keys to deselect the drives.
6.
Press the soft Check Mark (Tone) key to send the take to the Trash Folder.
Renaming Tracks
Track names can be renamed during and after recording via the Take List. To rename a track:
1.
Enter the Take List by pressing the
2.
Highlight the desired take to be edited.
3.
Press the soft EDIT (PLAY) key to access the Take Edit Menu.
4.
Highlight and select the track that is to be renamed.
5.
Rename the track and press the soft Check Mark (TONE) key to save the new track name.
HDD key.
File Management
The 788T, like a computer, saves audio recordings to a file system containing files and folders. The
788T formats its internal hard drive, CompactFlash cards, and attached external drives in the FAT32
format as single drives named “788T INDD”, “788T CF”, and “788T EXTHDD,” respectively.
Automatic File Splitting
While it is possible to have thousands of files on the 788T storage volume(s), the largest any single
file may be is 4 GB. See Appendix 4 – FAT32 and Maximum File Size. The 788T automatically splits an
audio file before the 4 GB size is reached (2 GB is factory default) and begins writing to a new file.
When joined in an editing program, these files match seamlessly with no samples lost. Maximum
File Size can be selected in the Setup Menu option FILE: MAX SIZE of 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4
GB. The 512 MB size allows the user to break an audio program into CD-R sized files for backup to
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
inexpensive CD-R media. There is also a selection of sizes to ensure that recorded files will fit onto
common CompactFlash card capacities.
File Time and Date
Similar to a computer file system, all files recorded by the 788T are stamped with the creation time
and date. To ensure that accurate time-of-day and file generation dates are written for each file, make
certain that the time-of-day clock and calendar are correct.
File time and date and time code are unrelated.
1.
Enter the Setup Menu option TIME/DATE: SET.
2.
Set the current time and date using the navigation below.
soft keys increment
and decrement
time and date,
controller can be
turned, as well
advances to the
next selection
returns to the
previous selection
Once set, the time and date clock will be maintained indefinitely.
Folder Actions
All files generated by the 788T can be saved to the Root directory, a Project Folder, a Daily (Roll)
Folder, or a Scene Folder (Files are saved to the Root directory by default). File organization is
managed in the Setup Menu option FILE: FOLDER OPTIONS. Folder choices include TOP-LEVEL,
MID-LEVEL, and BOTTOM LEVEL FOLDERS.
• Top-Level / Project Folder – is a root-level folder and can be set with a user-selected Project
name. Use this, for instance, as the name of the movie you are working on. The name of this
folder is inserted in the <PROJECT> field of the iXML and bEXT chunks. See Appendix 2 –
Metadata Implementation.
The Top-Level folder can also be de-activated by selecting <NONE> from the Setup Menu. If the
Top-Level folder is not used then the next lower-level folder will reside at the drive’s root. If
the TOP-LEVEL folder is active then the MID-LEVEL and BOTTOM-LEVEL folders will be its subfolders.
• Mid-Level / Tape (Roll) Folder – can be selected as a Roll folder with user-selected name or as
a <DAILY> folder, or not used. The name of this folder is inserted in the <TAPE> (Roll) field of
the iXML and bEXT chunks.
If a TOP-LEVEL folder is in use, the MID-LEVEL folder will be a sub-folder of the TOP-LEVEL
folder. If no TOP-LEVEL folder is used, the MID-LEVEL folder will reside at the drive’s root. If
set to <DAILY> a new folder will be created daily. When recording past midnight the 788T will
prompt to make to a new daily folder.
• Bottom-Level / Scene Folder – can be selected as a <SCENE> folder which will use the name
generated from the REC: SCENE NAME/NUMBER Setup Menu, as a user-selected name, or not
used at all.
If no upper-level folder is in use, the BOTTOM-LEVEL folder will reside at drive’s root. If the
MID-LEVEL and/or TOP-LEVEL are in use the BOTTOM-LEVEL folder will be a sub-folder.
Example: If a daily Folder is desired, set the TOP-LEVEL to <NONE>, the MID-LEVEL folder to
<DAILY>, and the BOTTOM-LEVEL to <NONE>. This will generate a Daily Folder in the root directory
with files directly inside the folder.
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Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
A hierarchical view of files generated by the 788T is below.
788T
The FALSETAKES, SOUNDDEV, and TRASH folders are automatically
generated. SOUNDDEV is not viewable from the 788T File Viewer.
FALSETAKES
SOUNDDEV
A TOP-LEVEL folder sits in the root directory. This folder can be
negated by choosing <None> in the menu File: Folder Options.
A MID-LEVEL folder can be used as a sub-folder. This folder can be
selected to be a <Daily> folder in the menu File: Folder Options.
TRASH
TOP-LEVEL
MID-LEVEL
BOTTOM-LEVEL
Example:
788T
FALSETAKES
SOUNDDEV
TRASH
PROJECT
07Y01M15
SCENE
NAMET01.WAV
NAMET02.WAV
A BOTTOM-LEVEL folder could also be used as a sub-folder. This
folder can be selected to be a <Scene> folder in the menu File: Folder
Options.
This is a TOP-LEVEL folder named PROJECT activated in the menu
File: Folder Options.
This is a MID-LEVEL folder set to <Daily> from the menu File: Folder
Options.
This is a BOTTOM-LEVEL folder set to <Scene> from the menu
File: Folder Options.
These two files are title NAME in the menu
Rec: Scene Name/Number.
The Drive Directory (File Viewer)
From within the Drive Directory, navigate between storage media, folders, and files. View file properties and select files for playback. The Drive Directory always exits to the main LCD display whether entered from the Setup Menu or via the Take List.
The left side of the File Viewer displays storage media, folders, and files. The top line displays the directory path in the form of DRIVE\FOLDER NAME and the right side displays file or folder properties depending on what is selected on the left hand side. File and folder names are listed in the order
in which they were recorded.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Navigation
Moving from file to file is similar to navigating among files on a computer. To access the Drive Directory perform the following:
1.
From the Main screen, press the HDD key to access the Take List.
2.
Press the soft DRV (HDD) key to access the Drive Directory. The Drive Directory will open immediately
to the location of the last take recorded or played back. Note: For quick access to the Drive Directory
from the Main Screen, simply press the HDD key twice.
3.
Use the Multi Function Rotary Switch to scroll through files and folders. Select “\..” at the top of the
list to move up one menu level. For quick access to the Root Directory press the soft (MENU) key.
4.
Select either HDD, CF or EXT and scroll down through the directory to the required file. Should CF or
EXT not be connected, the media will be crossed out in the media select screen.
Larger files on slower media can take longer to display details; this is normal.
Unrecognized File types do not appear in the file viewer, although all folders are viewable.
Selecting Files for Playback
Enter the Drive Directory and navigate to the desired file for playback. Once the desired file
is highlighted, press play. The 788T will playback according to what has been selected in the
PLAY: AUTOPLAY MODE Setup Menu option. If a monophonic file is selected, the 788T will playback
all associated monophonic files from the same take simultaneously. See Playback.
Folder Options Menu
The Folder Options Menu is accessed by pressing the soft OPTIONS (FAST FORWARD) key for
any folder in the Drive Directory. Here it is possible to rename folders, set and clear copy flags, and
delete folders.
Operations performed within the Drive Directory Folder Options Menu are only applied to the select
media, as defined in the directory path. To apply edits across all available media, operations must be
performed within the Take List. See Take Edit Menu.
Rename Folders
Folder names can be edited after recording has taken place. To rename a folder:
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Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
1.
Enter the Drive Directory.
2.
Highlight the desired folder to be renamed.
3.
Press the soft OPTIONS (FAST FORWARD) key to access the Folder Options Menu..
4.
Select Rename.
5.
Rename the folder and press the soft Check Mark (TONE) key to save the new file name
Delete Folders
Any folder located on any of the storage media, can be deleted. Permanently deleting folders is a
two-step process. Similar to Mac OS and Windows operating systems, the 788T uses a “trash” folder
to temporarily hold files which have been deleted. To send a folder and all of its contents to the trash,
perform the following:
1.
Enter the Drive Directory.
2.
Navigate to the folder to be deleted.
3.
Press the soft OPTIONS (Fast Forward) key.
4.
Select DELETE.
5.
You will be prompted to confirm folder deletion.
The file has now been moved to the select media’s trash folder and will no longer appear in the
Drive Directory. It will, however, appear in the trash folder. Files sent the trash folder can still be
viewed and played.
If a folder has accidentally been sent to the trash, the drive can be mounted to a computer via
FireWire/USB and moved back to its original folder. Folders moved to the trash cannot be removed
from the trash directly from the 788T.
Folders deleted from the Folder Options Menu are only deleted from the select media, as defined in the
directory path. To Delete files across all available media, Delete must be performed within the Take List.
See Take Edit Menu for more details.
Set and Clear Copy Flags
Copy Flags are useful for selecting various takes to be copied from one media to another. By
default, Takes recorded by the 788T have their Copy Flag set to On. If the Setup Menu option
FILE: COPY FLAG RESET is enabled the Copy Flags will automatically clear after the file has been
copied from one media to another. See File Copying Among Available Media. Setting and Clearing Flags
from the Folder Options menu only changes the Copy flag status on the select media. If changing the
flag status across all media is desired, perform the Set/Clr Copy Flag operation in the Take List.
To set or clear Copy Flags from the Drive Directory:
1.
Select a media or folder in the Drive Directory.
2.
Press the soft OPTIONS (FAST FORWARD) key, then choose Set Copy Flag or Clr Copy Flag respectively. If the media or folder contains sub-folders, the 788T will display the following prompt:
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Drive Directory Options Menu
All drive specific operations are performed in the Drive Directory Options Menu, with the exception of the Drive Speed Tests. Drive Speed Tests are performed within the Setup Menu option
DRIVE: SPEED TESTS. The following functions are performed within the Drive Directory Options
Menu:
• Rename (the Drive/Folder)
• Set Copy Flags
• Clear Copy Flags
• Empty Trash (and False Takes)
• Erase (Formats the Drive)
Perform the following steps to the access the Drive Directory Options Menu.
1.
Access the Drive Directory and navigate to the Root Directory. See Navigation for additional steps.
4.
Highlight the desired Drive.
5.
Press the soft Options (Fast Forward) key to access the Drive Directory Options Menu.
Emptying the Trash
Files and folders that have been moved to the Trash or False Takes folders can be permanently
deleted from each media. Each drive has its own Trash folder and False Takes folder that are permanently deleted independently from the Drive Directory Options Menu.
Once the trash folder has been emptied, any files or folders it contained are permanently deleted
and cannot be recovered. After the trash folder has been emptied, a prompt to empty the false takes
folder is displayed.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Erase (Media Format)
For best operation periodic re-formatting of the 788T media is recommended. Formatting the hard
drive, Compact Flash, and external media rebuilds the FAT (file allocation table) and erases all audio
and data files present on the medium. Formatting media prevents fragmentation and reduces the
likelihood of directory corruption.
Be certain that all files on the drive have been backed up to another media before formatting. Once formatted, all data on the given media will be erased. Dynamic lists such as track names, scene names, folder
name entries, etc... will be saved.
To format the 788T media:
1.
Ensure that all data on the drive has been copied or is no longer needed.
2.
Press the HDD key to access the Take List.
3.
Press the soft DRV (HDD) key to access the Drive Directory.
4.
Press the soft
5.
Use the Multi-Function Rotary Switch to highlight the desired media to be formatted.
6.
Press the soft Options (Fast Forward) key to access the Drive Directory Options Menu.
7.
Select the ERASE option from the list.
4.
To verify that a non-recoverable format of the storage device is desired, two keys must be pressed to
begin formatting. Press and hold down the PLAY key to enable the Check Mark.
(MENU) key to access the Root Directory.
Press and hold
down the PLAY key
5.
Press the soft Check Mark (TONE) key to begin formatting.
Press the TONE key
to begin formatting
When the operation is complete, the 788T will generate a fresh menu hierarchy. Dynamic lists such
as track names, scene names, folder options, etc. will be saved.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Storage Media – Internal Hard Drive
The 788T’s internal hard disk drive is the 788T’s primary storage medium. The large capacity and
fast data read/write speeds of hard drives are a perfect choice when long form, high data rate recording is performed. Hard disk drives offer a good balance of speed, reliability, noise performance,
and current draw.
The drive installed in the 788T is formatted at the factory as a single-partition FAT32 volume. If a
drive with multiple partitions is installed, the 788T will only “see” and address the primary partition.
Drive Type
The 788T ships with a 2.5-inch, 5400 RPM hard drive with a SATA-5 interface. Sound Devices has
chosen the specific mechanism for maximum vibration and shock resistance. Most 2.5 inch drives
conforming to the SATA specification can be substituted for the factory hard drive. When choosing
a substitute hard drive, note that higher RPM hard drives draw more current, reducing battery run
time. Higher speed drives may be used with the 788T, however they will not significantly improve
performance. They will slightly increase transfer throughput with the penalty of increased current
draw and reduced battery run time. The 788T can address drives with capacities up to 2 TB.
Drive Replacement
The internal hard drive can be removed and replaced if the device fails or if a different capacity drive
is needed. The internal hard drive is not intended to be a swappable, deliverable medium. Its multipin connector is not rated for repeated insertion and removal cycles and may be prone to breakage
with repeated cycling.
In typical service conditions Sound Devices recommends hard drive replacement once every three years.
The hard drive is mounted to the bottom-side of the recorder’s chassis and is screwdriver accessible.
The drive is “suspended” in the unit with a shock absorbing foam and is attached to the main circuit
board via a “flex board”. Since the high-density circuitry and tight construction require specific
electronics knowledge, Sound Devices strongly recommends drive replacement be performed by a
qualified technician using proper ESD precautions. Drive replacement done by a qualified technician
has no warranty implications.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
788T with bottom panel
removed showing hard
drive mounting location
The internal hard drive is not intended as a swappable exchange medium. The header connector is not
rated for repeated removal and insertion. Only qualified service technician using proper ESD precautions
should perform drive replacement.
Storage Medium – Removable CompactFlash
CompactFlash (CF) is a practical, portable storage media for audio recording. Its speed, capacity, and
price continue to evolve to the benefit of portable recorders. The 788T can write to and read from CF
cards as either its sole storage media or simultaneously with the internal hard drive.
When to Use CF
The key benefits of CompactFlash include:
•
•
•
•
•
wider temperature range capability than hard drives
greatly increased shock immunity versus hard drives
convenient, portable, removable media
ubiquitous card readers and transfer tools
more power efficient than hard drives
Formatting
Upon insertion of an unformatted (or non-FAT32 formatted) CF card, the 788T will prompt the user
to format the card. If the card is formatted as a FAT32 volume, the card will be ready to be selected.
To reformat the CF media see Erase (Media Formatting) in the Drive Directory Options Menu. The 788T can
format and use CompactFlash cards with capacities of 128 MB and greater.
Formatting the CF rebuilds the FAT (file allocation table) and erases all audio and data files present
on the card. While some PC and Mac utilities can recover files immediately after formatting a CF
card, consider that the files have been permanently erased. FAT32 volumes generated by the 788T
may not be compatible with some consumer electronic devices, including entry-level digital cameras.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
After recording has stopped, it may take several seconds for the 788T to finish “housekeeping” on CF.
When preparing to remove the CF, always observe the CF activity LED. If it is lit yellow or red, wait
until it turns green before removing the card. If the CF is removed while the LED is yellow or red, there is
a possibility of file or FAT corruption.
Speed Testing
CF cards varied widely in their read and write throughput. Later generation “24x” and greater CF
cards can reliably read and write multi-track, high sample rate audio. We recommend the use of
UDMA x300 CF cards for 8+ track recording. The 788T includes a drive speed test to measure the
throughput speed of CF medium.
Qualified CF Cards
Sound Devices does not specifically “qualify” CompactFlash cards for use in the recorder. From our
tests of numerous cards—including medium from Lexar Media, SanDisk, and Kingston Technology—newer cards in capacities from 128 MB and above will successfully operate in the 788T. Some
older CF cards are known to have compatibility issues with the 788T. These cards cannot be formatted or addressed by the recorder.
The 788T supports the use of ultra fast UDMA Compact Flash cards ideal for recording multi-track,
high data rate digital audio. The unit will support up to 2 TB of data. Small capacity cards may not
format as FAT32 and may not be usable. Use the CF transfer speed test to verify that an installed card
can support the needed read/write speed.
Storage Medium – External FireWire Drives
The FireWire ports on the 788T can function in either “host” mode or “drive” mode. See File Transfer
to a Computer. In host mode, an attached FireWire storage volume such as a hard drive or DVD-RAM
can be used to record and play back audio files. Because the 788T can write to all available mediums
simultaneously, the ability to write to an external drive reduces the need for post-record copying of
sound files.
External hard
drive is attached
When to Use External FireWire Drives
The key benefits of recording external drives include:
•
•
•
•
the choice of drive types include DVD-RAM optical drives or hard drives
near limitless storage capacity when a large volume external hard drive is attached (up to 2 TB)
fast, no-waiting simultaneous record option
post-record copying to quickly back up internal hard drive or CF medium
Formatting
Identical to both the internal hard drive and CompactFlash, attached FireWire drives are formatted
as FAT32 volumes. Upon connection to an unformatted (or non-FAT32 formatted) external drive, the
788T will prompt the user to format the drive. If the drive is already formatted as a FAT32 volume
the drive can be selected as a recording destination. The front panel drive LED will illuminate to
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
show which drives are available for recording. To reformat the external media see Erase (Media Formatting) in the Drive Directory Options Menu.
After recording to an external drive has stopped, it may take several seconds for the 788T to finish
“housekeeping” on drive. This is especially true when recording to DVD-RAM disks, which generally
have slower throughput than hard drives.
When preparing to disconnect a FireWire drive, always observe the activity LED labeled EX. If it is yellow, wait until it turns green before disconnecting the drive. If the drive is disconnected while the LED is
yellow, there is a possibility of file or FAT corruption.
FireWire Bus Powering
The FireWire 400 and 800 ports on the 788T provides power for bus-powered FireWire drives. The
following conditions should be observed when connecting to bus-powered drives.
• Bus powering a drive requires external DC powering of the 788T, however, the 788T can buspower select lower power devices such as a CF card reader from Li-ion power. Sound Devices
recommends using the supplied XL-WPH2 in-line power supply when bus-powering external
storage media such as hard drives and DVD-RAM burners.
• While hot-swapping FireWire cables is possible, Sound Devices recommends making connections to bus-powered drives with the recorder turned Off.
The 788T does not support the XL-1394 FireWire Power Conditioning Cable accessory for the 702, 702T,
722, and 744T recorders. The power conditioning circuitry is integrated into the 788T’s design, negating
the reason for the XL-1394 accessory.
Qualified Drives
External FireWire storage volumes that can be formatted and addressed as FAT32 can be used with
the 788T. These include:
• external hard drives, bus-powered or mains powered. Drives as large as 2 TB can be addressed,
• FireWire CompactFlash card readers,
• DVD-RAM drives.
FireWire drives use a variety of chipsets to perform conversion from the drive’s native format (i.e.
IDE) to FireWire. To check for compatibility with the 788T attach a FireWire drive and run the media
speed test selected from the Setup Menu. This will write, then read a file to the drive. If the drive can
perform this test then it can be used to record audio.
DVD-RAM Drives
DVD-RAM drives are essentially optical hard drives. The 788T supports recording to and playing
back from DVD-RAM drives when formatted as FAT32 volumes.
When recording to DVD-RAM drives in real time, it is important to note the following:
1.
Record to polyphonic file formats.
2.
Use DVD-RAM drives and media that support 5X recording speeds.
3.
Only record to a DVD-RAM drive when it is on a stable surface. Unpredictable results may occur if the
DVD-RAM drive is moved while in operation.
4.
Avoid recording to DVD-RAM when recording higher track counts.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
File Copying Among Available Media
Audio files are easily transferred between the 788T’s internal hard drive, CF, and external drives. File
transfer is initiated from the Setup Menu option FILE: COPY FILE S
The File Copy menu has numerous options for each media type:
Copy All [Media] > [Media]:
Copies all files from one media to the other.
Last 24Hr [Media] > [Media]:
Copies files created in the last 24 hours from one media to the other.
Last 48Hr [Media] > [Media]:
Copies files created in the last 48 hours from one media to the other.
Flagged [Media] > [Media]:
Copies all files with their Copy Flag set from one media to the other.
Once file copying has begun, the 788T searches the source media for the selected files. The 788T will
then search the destination drive looking for duplicate file names. The LCD will report the number
of files found, the number of duplicates found, and the number of files to be copied and prompt to
continue.
Pressing the soft Check Mark (TONE) key or pressing in on the Multi-Function Rotary Switch begins
the copy process. The LCD will report the progress of the copy operation. When file copying is complete, the 788T will report the number of files successfully copied.
Error Conditions:
If a file is too large for the destination storage media, the 788T will prompt to skip it or cancel copying. If an error occurs while copying, the 788T will prompt to cancel the transfer. When the destination storage media is full, the 788T will report the error and end the file transfer.
File Transfer to Computer
WORD / VID IN
MENU
SELECT
FW800
FW400
USB
BAL AES
OUT
MENU
SELECT
SYNC
DC IN
10-18V
1
2
3
ANALOG BAL LINE OUTS
PIN 4 (+)
PIN 1 (-)
UNBAL
5,6
4
1,2
3,4
TIMECODE
WORD / VID IN
WORD / VID IN
DC IN
10-18V
1
2
3
ANALOG BAL LINE OUTS
FW800
FW400
USB
BAL AES
OUT
MENU
SELECT
SYNC
DC IN
10-18V
1
2
3
ANALOG BAL LINE OUTS
FW800
FW400
USB
BAL AES
OUT
WORD OUT
UNBAL
FireWire 800
5,6
4
1,2
3,4
TIMECODE
UNBAL
WORD OUT
FireWire 400
FW800
SYNC
PIN 4 (+)
PIN 1 (-)
PIN 4 (+)
PIN 1 (-)
5,6
4
1,2
3,4
TIMECODE
WORD OUT
USB
USB
FW400
The 788T’s data transfer ports makes transferring recorded files to a computer quick and easy. When
connected to a computer, the 788T’s internal hard drive and CompactFlash card will mount to a Mac
OS X or Windows computer as a local, removable mass storage volumes. Using Mac Finder, Windows Explorer, or any other file utility, files can be copied, read, and deleted directly to and from the
788T hard drive.
When connected to a computer for file transfer, the MENU and HDD keys are disabled. The 788T
remains functional in the areas listed below, thus permitting various operations including A/D and
D/A conversion, routing (mixing), recording to an external device, time code and sync generation
and monitoring.
• Routing
• Analog and digital I/O
• Time code
• Headphone monitoring
• Sync
• Metering
• Input gain controls
• Battery charging
• Input Mutes
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
It is best practice to copy original audio files from the original recorded medium to another volume before
editing.
To mount the 788T to a computer:
1.
Stop all playback and recording activity.
2.
Make certain the 788T battery is fully charged, or connect to external DC.
3.
Connect the 788T to the host computer with a FireWire 400, FireWire 800, or USB cable. No drivers are
required if the computer meets the requirements. See Specifications.
5.
If the 788T doesn’t search for the computer connection, initialize the FireWire/USB connection by selecting FIREWIRE/USB: CONNECTION in the Setup Menu or simply press and
hold the STOP key then press the HDD key. The 788T will enter File Transfer mode, indicated by
FIREWIRE/USB CONNECTION on the LCD display. All functions of the 788T are stopped while the 788T
is connected to a computer.
6.
Navigate to either the hard drive or CF card from the computer and copy all needed audio files to local
storage on the computer.
To avoid possible directory corruption on the 788T hard drive, always properly dismount the unit
from the operating system. On Mac platforms, drag the drive icons to the trash. On Windows platforms, use the “Disconnect External Media” icon in the system tray.
To disconnect the 788T from the computer:
1.
Make certain that any software applications that reference the 788T drive are closed and that all file
copy functions to and from the 788T have completed.
2.
In Mac OS X highlight the drive icon on the desktop and select -e to eject the volume. Alternatively,
drag the drive icon to the trash in the dock. In Windows, right-click the drive icon and select “eject.”
3.
The cable between the computer and 788T can now be disconnected. If a future connection is going to
be made the cable can be left connected.
If the 788T is disconnected from the computer via an eject command and the chosen cable is still
physically connected between the computer and recorder, the data connection can be made by entering the Setup Menu and selecting FIREWIRE/USB: CONNECTION. Alternatively, simultaneously press
the STOP and HDD keys to begin a connection.
Do not remove the CompactFlash card while FIREWIRE/USB: CONNECTION appears in the LCD.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Powering
The 788T is powered from either removable, Li-ion rechargeable batteries or external DC power. The
included, removable 7.2 V Li-ion cell can be used as a primary or backup power source. The 788T
automatically chooses the power source based on the voltage level of the external power supply. If
it falls below a factory-set threshold, the unit will transition to Li-ion power. The transition between
external and removable battery powering is seamless and has no affect on recording or playback
operation.
Run times can vary considerably from one to four hours when powering the 788T with the included
4600 mAh Li-ion battery. Run times are dependent on setup. See Power Consumption Variables.
Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery
The 788T is compatible with Sony L-mount Li-ion rechargeable batteries. Numerous power capacities are available in these battery types, ranging from 1000 mAh to 7000 mAh. The 788T’s mount
accommodates unlimited battery depth. Larger amp-hour cells provide more run time.
When powered by the removable Li-ion battery the LCD displays the battery voltage. The nominal
operating voltage for Li-ion batteries is 7.2 V, with operating voltages ranging between 6.5–8.5 V.
When the voltage drops to 6.9 V, the voltage display on the LCD will begin flashing and the power
LED will also flash red to warn that the battery is nearly depleted. When the voltage reaches 6.5 volts
the 788T will power down—any recordings in-process will automatically close (stop).
External Powering and Battery Charging
The 788T can be powered externally from 10–18 VDC (4 amp minimum). DC input uses a 4-pin Hirose connector (Part # HR10-7P4P). External DC fully powers the unit and charges an attached Li-ion
battery simultaneously using the 788T’s onboard Li-ion charger.
Pin-1 of the external DC input is at the same ground potential as chassis and signal ground.
In the Setup Menu option POWER: BATTERY CHARGER , the charger circuit can be set to operate only
when the unit is off, only when the unit is on, always, or never.
When power is applied, the charging circuit evaluates the battery condition and supplies charging
current, if necessary. Once the battery is fully charged, the charger will turn Off. Large capacity cells
increase the charge time.
With an external DC source applied, the Power LED will indicate the battery charging status.
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Power LED Activity
Description of Activity
Off
Unit is Off, charger is disabled
Solid Amber
Unit is Off, battery is fully charged
Solid Green
Unit is On, battery is fully charged or detached
Solid Green/Flashing Amber
Unit is On, battery is charging
Flashing Amber
Unit is Off, battery is charging
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
The voltage level of the source powering the unit is displayed on the main LCD screen in the upper
). To account for the wide variety of external powering sources availleft-hand corner (
able, the 788T has an adjustable external low battery threshold. Set the low voltage cutoff point in the
Setup Menu option POWER: EXT LOW BATT VOLT according to the power source.
When the 788T senses a low voltage condition from an external DC source, dependent on the userselectable external low battery voltage setting, the voltage level display will flash, to alert the user.
Additionally, if a charged L-Mount battery is attached the power LED will illuminate solid yellow to
alert the user that the external power source is within 0.5 V of the low voltage threshold and will be
switching power sources over to the L-Mount battery when the low voltage threshold is reached.
If no battery is attached, the power LED will flash red when the external power source is within 0.5
V of the low voltage threshold to alert the user that the unit will shut down automatically when the
low voltage threshold is reached.
Time Code Clock Battery
The 788T has an internal lithium Ion battery to power the time code generator circuitry and time-ofday clock. When charging from external DC, this battery is charged simultaneously with the Li-ion
removable L-Mount battery. If no external DC is connected, the internal Li-ion battery is charged
from the removable L-Mount battery.
Accurate time code is held for four hours after power down. The 788T can be powered down and the
removable battery can be removed and replaced without worry of time code jumps or inaccuracy.
When the internal Li-ion Ion cell reaches a factory-set voltage, the time code generator will shut off
and the time-of-day clock will take over, holding time and date indefinitely
788T maintains accurate time code for six hours after power-down.
Auto Functions with External Powering
The 788T can perform several functions when DC power is applied and removed from the recorder.
External power functionality is set in the Setup Menu option POWER: EXT POWER FUNCTION. Options available include:
• Power On Unit – unit will turn on and be ready for operation.
• Power On and Begin Recording – unit will power on and begin recording with the settings
used when previously powered down.
• Power On, Power Off Unit – external DC functions as the on/off switch.
• Power On and Begin Recording, Power Off – unit will power on and begin recording, then
turn off when power is removed.
These functions are useful when the unit is part of a production kit powered by a single power
source. A single power switch can be used to power on the whole kit.
In addition to the internal record timer, the auto functions (power on/begin record/power off) can
be used for more extensive unattended recording control. Using an outboard timer attached to a
DC supply the 788T can be placed and activated to record events including EFX or nature, and for
surveillance applications.
Power Consumption Variables
The 788T draws power from either its on-board Li-ion battery or from external DC sources. Two
factors need to be considered to calculate battery runtime—battery/power supply capacity and unit
power consumption. The best determination of your run time is to experiment with a given recording setup.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
The 788T power consumption varies over a range between 4 W to 20 W (12 volts), depending on active functions. The following functions have the most significant affect on power consumption:
Inputs
Active inputs increase power consumption. If recording solely to input 1 and input 2, disable
inputs 3-8 to reduce power consumption. Analog inputs and the microphone preamps draw
current whether they are idle or active. Active inputs draw 1.5 W compared to deactivated
inputs.
Hard Drive Activity
When the unit is recording to or playing back from the internal hard drive, power consumption
raises by approximately 2 W. Recording to CF only will greatly reduce power consumption.
Microphone Powering
Phantom powered microphones draw power for operation. Up to 4 W can be drawn from the
phantom supply.
Battery Chargers
Depending on the charge state of the on-board Li-ion, the charging circuit can draw ~10 W
from external DC.
When the 788T is on, the internal Li-ion time code battery is charged from the removable
L-mount battery if an external DC source is not connected.. This may slightly reduce the removable battery’s run time.
Meter Brightness
The LED brightness can be lowered to conserve power.
LCD Backlight
The backlight can be defeated to conserve power.
Firmware Upgrades
The 788T uses upgradable EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory) to hold
its operating software, or firmware. Firmware is the source code which controls all aspects of the
device, including: menu options, signal routing, signal processing, LED’s, keys, and switches, and
data ports.
Version Information
During manufacturing the hardware revision number and serial number are burned into a protected
area of the EEPROM and cannot be altered. The serial number, FireWire (IEEE-1394) revision, and
current firmware revision can be viewed in the Setup Menu option INFO:VERSION.
The 788T firmware version and unit serial numbers are written to the data chunk of every WAV
audio file generated by the 788T.
Firmware upgrades usually preserve all user Setup Menu settings. However, save a snapshot of the settings to a Setup file on the hard drive or CF. After upgrading the firmware, restore settings from this file.
Some firmware updates may make changes to user setups; verify all user setups after an upgrade.
Upgrading Firmware
From time to time, Sound Devices may issue revisions (new versions) of firmware for the 788T. Firmware is user-upgradeable. To upgrade firmware follow these steps.
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v. 1.60
1.
Download the firmware file from the Sound Devices web site.
2.
Transfer the firmware file (it will be named VERSION _ NUMBER.PRG) to the 788T internal hard drive via
FireWire/USB or onto a CF card. If there are multiple firmware files on the media, the 788T will indicate
the firmware file listed to apply. To prevent confusion, ensure that there is only one firmware file available on either 788T media.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
3.
Enter the Setup Menu option UPDATE SOFTWARE. You will be prompted to search for the firmware file.
4.
If a valid firmware file is present on either the internal hard drive or CF the recorder will prompt if the
path is the proper file to use. Press the Multi-Function Rotary Switch or the soft Check Mark (TONE).
5.
To verify that the PRG file selected is correct, the 788T will ask “Are you sure?” Press the Multi-Function
Rotary Switch or the soft Check Mark (TONE) key to say yes.
6.
The 788T will begin to program the firmware upgrade. Progress is indicated with a bar graph.
7.
The 788T will automatically verify that the software update was a success.
8.
When the programming and verify process is complete, the 788T will prompt to power cycle. Press the
Multi-Function Rotary Switch or the soft Check Mark (TONE) key to power down the 788T.
9.
After the 788T shuts down completely, press the PWR key.
10. Verify the firmware version using the Setup Menu option INFO: VERSION.
11. Verify any recording parameters.
12. It is best practice to download the latest user guide from the Sound Devices web site, since the changes
to functionality are documented.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Remote Control
The 788T provides remote control functionality using a USB keyboard, Logic Input/Output via the
rear panel DE-15 connector, the Sound Devices CL-1 Remote Roll Accessory, and the Sound Devices
CL-8 Controller for the 788T.
The USB Keyboard Input is available to plug in a standard USB keyboard to control the 788T. Front
panel controls and menu selections on the 788T can be mapped to keyboard shortcuts, allowing for
full keyboard control of the recorder. Sound Devices has tested and recommends the following USB
Keyboards:
• A4Tech KL-5UP (http://www.a4tech.com)
• Kensington K64366 (http://us.kensington.com)
• Adesso ACK-595U (http://www.adesso.com)
Keyboards with internal USB hubs do not function with the 788T.
Keyboard Assignments
Menu Keys
Standard keyboard shortcuts have been pre-assigned and are listed below.
Shortcut Key
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v. 1.60
Function
Escape
Cancel – Exits without saving in all menus
Enter
Ok – Saves and exits in all menus (Check Mark or Edit)
Up Arrow
Mirrors the LCD Up Arrow in all menus
Down Arrow
Mirrors the LCD Down Arrow in all menus
Left Arrow
Mirrors the LCD REWIND Arrow in all menus
Custom Route User Interface – Un-assign Route
Time Menu – Moves to previous field
Right Arrow
Mirrors the LCD FAST FORWARD Arrow in all menus
Custom Route User Interface – Assign Route.
InRoute User Interface – Edit if on ‘Custom Route’
File User Interface – Selects Options for Folders/Files when displayed
Shortcut Edit User Interface – Edit shortcut if on shortcut number
Scene/Track Lists – Edits (Same as pressing the Play key)
Time Menu – Moves to next field.
CTRL + Up Arrow
Setup User Interface Menu: Moves to the previous category
CTRL + Down Arrow
Setup User Interface Menu: Moves to the next category
Page Up
Setup User Interface Menu: Moves to the previous category or marker
Page Down
Setup User Interface Menu:- Moves to the next category or marker
Shortcut Edit User Interface Menu: Same as Enter
Home
Setup User Interface Menu: Moves to the top of the list.
File User Interface: Moves to the top of the list
Shortcut Edit User Interface : Goes to first shortcut number or Hot Key
String User Interface: Goes to the beginning of the string
End
Setup User Interface Menu: Moves to the bottom of the list.
Shortcut Edit User Interface: Goes to last shortcut number or Hot Key
String User Interface: Goes to the end of the string being edited
Delete
Scene/Track Lists: Deletes entry when permitted
String User Interface: Deletes character when permitted
Insert
Setup User Interface Menu: Toggles Markers
String User Interface: Inserts a space when permitted
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
“Hot Key”
Shortcut Edit User Interface Menu: Selects Hot Key In Set Key Mode
Global: Executes Command if function is assigned to Hot Key
01 - 99 (number sequence)
Setup User Interface Menu: Jumps to menu list number.
Shortcut User Interface Menu: Jumps to shortcut number.
String Edits & Take Name/Number (Renaming & Notes)
Hot Key
Function
ASCII Characters
Scene: Inserts and moves to next character.
Take – ‘0-9’ – Inserts Number, ‘A-Z’ – Inserts space character
Backspace
Deletes the previous character and moves one character to the left
Delete
Deletes the currently selected character
Take: Same as ‘Reset’ (PLAY key)
Enter
Carriage Return if permitted, otherwise
Ok: Saves and exits
CTRL + Enter
Ok: Saves and exits. (Only when Carriage Return is permitted.)
Insert
Inserts a space character when permitted
Escape
Cancel: Exits without saving in both menus
Up Arrow
Increment Character in both menus
Down Arrow
Decrement Character in both menus
Left Arrow
Previous Character in both menus
Right Arrow
Next Character in both menus
Home
Goes to the beginning of the string being edited
End
Goes to the end of the string being edited
Assignable Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts can be programmed to control nearly every function on the 788T. Shortcuts can
select and change menu items with simple key strokes. Combinations of keyboard function keys,
along with Control-, Alt-, and Shift- can also be programmed. The following chart shows what keys
and key combinations are programmable.
Hot Key
Key
Shift-
Ctrl-
Alt-
F1-F12
X
X
X
X
0-9
-
-
X
X
A-Z
-
-
X
X
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
To program a shortcut perform the following steps:
1.
Enter the KEYBOARD/LOGIC IN: ASSIGN Setup Menu selection.
Shortcut number. Up
to 50 shortcuts can be
programmed
2.
Select an unassigned shortcut number for programming. If a duplicate key sequence is selected the lowest shortcut number action takes place. The example below shows the F1 key being reprogrammed.
3.
After selecting a key sequence, select the desired Setup Menu item or action. The example below shows
the reprogramming of the F1 key to change the sampling rate to the next setting in the list.
Specific Setup
Menu options can
be programmed if
multiple options are
available.
If a single key or key combination is programmed for multiple shortcuts, the shortcut with the lowest
number will take precedence.
Shortcut List Functionality
The shortcut list is a user definable list of keyboard keys/Logic In that perform specified actions.
The actions that a keyboard key can perform are listed in the below table.
Action
76
v. 1.60
Function
Momentary Key
Simulates selected button. Can simulate in any menu
Toggle Key
Toggles the state of selected key. Only Play and Record are supported
Open Menu
Opens a SetupUI Menu
Cycle Settings
Cycles a SetupUI parameter to the next setting and saves it
Set Settings
Sets a SetupUI parameter to the given setting and saves it
Open Time Code Menu
Opens the TimeCode: Jam Menu and goes to the given parameter
Jam Time Code Item
Jams given TimeCode parameter
Edit Time Code Item
Opens the TimeCode: Jam Menu Edit screen for the given parameter
Key Shortcuts
Simulates a front panel key shortcut. Ex: (Stop+Play) opens TakeList Menu
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Logic In
The Logic Input enables external devices to initiate functions on the 788T. This is commonly used for
“remote rolling” using a mixing console with a record control.
The function assigned to the logic input is set in the Setup Menu option KEYBOARD/LOGIC IN: ASSIGN.
Almost any 788T function can be assigned. The default function is RECORD.
Connect pin-9 of the rear panel DE-15 connector to the required logic output of an external remote
control or mixer. See Connector Pin Assignments. The 788T function is triggered when a low voltage
appears on pin-9. High and Low are defined as follows:
• Low Input = 0.8 V or lower
• High Input = 2.0 V or higher
Logic Out (Record Tally)
The 788T provides a record tally output via the Logic Output pin on the rear panel DE-15 connector.
See Connector Pin Assignments. This can be used to initiate an external recording or logging device,
for providing a record tally signal back to an external mixer or for driving an external Record LED or
relay directly via a suitable resistor. The Logic output is able to source or sink up to 500 mA.
The logic output pin can be set to go high or low when record is initiated on the 788T. This setting is
maintained in the Setup Menu option LOGIC OUT: ASSIGN.
Logic Out Assign Setting
Logic Output Voltage in Record Mode
(DC potential at Pin-8 of DB 15 connector referenced to Chassis Ground)
Undefined
Indeterminate
High Upon Record
4.5 – 5.5 Volts
Low Upon Record
< 0.5 Volts
CL-1 Keyboard and Remote Control Interface
The CL-1 Keyboard and Remote Control Interface is an available hardware accessory to interface
with PS/2 compliant computer keyboards and enable external devices to control the 788T. When using the CL-1, front panel controls and menu selections on the 788T can be mapped to keyboard shortcuts, allowing for full keyboard control of the recorder. Additionally the CL-1 has contact closures for
programming remote inputs or outputs. These are commonly used for machine control and “remote
rolling” using a mixing console with transport controls.
Connecting the CL-1
1.
Connect the included C. Link cable to the 788T’s C. Link Input connector.
2.
Connect the opposite end of the C. Link cable to the CL-1’s C. Link connector.
3.
Connect a PS/2 keyboard to the PS/2 connector on the CL-1.
4.
Connect switches between assigned pins 1-6, pin-7 (ground), and pin-8 (+5V) on the CL-1. (See CL-1
Logic Inputs and Outputs)
The C. Link port on the 788T provides power for CL-1 operation.
77
788T User Guide and Technical Information
CL-1 Keyboard Interface
The CL-1 allows a user to use a PS/2 compliant keyboard to control the 788T. All functionality and
setup of the Keyboard Assignments are identical to that of the USB Keyboard. See Keyboard Assignments for more details.
Sound Devices recommends using either a PS/2 keyboard via the CL-1 or a USB Keyboard directly into
the 788T Keyboard Input, but avoid using both keyboards simultaneously.
CL-1 Logic Inputs and Outputs
Identical to shortcuts assigned to computer keyboard key sequences, the CL-1 has six contacts that
can be programmed to perform Setup Menu items or control the record, play, and stop functions of
the recorder. A switch connected between the assigned pin and ground (pin-7) will form a circuit.
Closing the circuit will activate the programmed action.
The Logic pins on the CL-1 can be set individually as either a switch-closure input or a switch closure output. The inputs and outputs are “logic low” devices, meaning that to turn “on” an input, it
must be connected to ground (zero volts). Likewise, when an output is “on”, it puts out 0 volts and
when it is “off”, it puts out +5 volts.
Logic Inputs
Configured as a switch-closure input, a pin can be connected to a switch that a user has wired to
assigned contact. This switch can then trigger the 788T to begin recording. Other functions can be
assigned as well from the Setup Menu. The switch-closure on a given pin of the CL-1 can be thought
of as just another key on the keyboard. Anything that can be assigned to a key can also be assigned
to a switch.
To configure a pin as an input, navigate to KEYBOARD/LOGIC IN: ASSIGN in the Setup Menu. Select
a new SHORTCUT number, then locate the Login inputs amongst the assignable keys. Choosing
CL1 LOGIC IN 1 would correspond to pin 1 on the CL-1, CL1 LOGIC IN 2 would correspond to
pin 2 on the CL-1, and so on. After a Logic input is selected, assign the desired action that the Logic
input will control.
Logic Outputs
Configured as a switch-closure output, the CL-1 can drive LEDs, relays, or any other sort of device
which will accept a TTL-level or similar input. For example, the CL-1 can drive a big red LED connected via a series resistor between the +5V output and a switch-closure output and light up whenever the recorder is put into record mode.
To configure a pin as an output, go to CL-1: LOGIC OUT ASSIGN in the Setup Menu. The
Logic Pin number is on the left hand side (“00”, “01”, etc). Each of these pins can be assigned to undefined, Stop, Play, Record, or Pause. Note that if a pin is assigned to be both
an input (via the KEYBOARD/LOGIC IN: ASSIGN Setup Menu) and an output (via the
CL-1: LOGIC OUT ASSIGN Setup Menu), the pin will automatically default to an output.
78
v. 1.60
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
CL-8 Controller
The CL-8 Controller is an optional control surface for the 788T Digital Recorder that significantly expands its mixing capability and overall usability. Its ergonomic design allows one-handed operation
of many of its functions, freeing the Sound Mixer to control other equipment.
Its large rotary style faders provide the Sound Mixer with precise control of gain levels sent to the
Master Left/Right mix tracks, which can be recorded. The 788T’s Front Panel Input Gain Pots control
the level for the Iso tracks and pre-fade aux tracks.
The Sound mixer can quickly make changes to input settings with the CL-8, including input-to-track
routing, high-pass filter, limiter, and input polarity. It displays input activity and can Solo any input.
The CL-8 has a dedicated button for the 788T’s built in Slate Mic. Additionally, the USB Keyboard
pass-through port permits keyboards to be attached for metadata entry and remote control.
CL-8 Connection
The CL-8 connects to the 788T via the USB Keyboard Input on the 788T’s back panel. The 788T connects and powers the CL-8 via USB, no other powering source is required. Immediately after connecting the CL-8 it will search and update accordingly to the 788T’s latest version of firmware.
The following warning screen will appear should the CL-8 be disconnected during operation.
The 788T will retain all CL-8 settings until further action is taken. If the CL-8 is reconnected the 788T
will immediately return to the screen viewed prior to the disconnection. All settings will remain the
same, provided that the fader levels have not been adjusted. If the check mark is selected, the 788T
will revert back to stand alone operation.
Refer to the CL-8 user guide for complete instructions on how to physically mount the CL-8 to the 788T.
79
788T User Guide and Technical Information
CL-8 Front Panel Descriptors
1
ALT
L
4
3
2
R
LIM 0
AUX 1
0
AUX 2
L
5
R
LIM 0
AUX 1
0
AUX 2
6
L
R
LIM 0
AUX 1
0
7
AUX 2
L
8
R
LIM 0
AUX 1
0
9
AUX 2
10
L
11
R
LIM 0
AUX 1
0
AUX 2
L
R
LIM 0
AUX 1
0
AUX 2
L
R
LIM 0
AUX 1
0
AUX 2
L
R
LIM 0
AUX 1
0
AUX 2
SLATE
+15
1) Fader
Attenuates the level of each respective
input sent to the Left and Right tracks.
Faders will also attenuate the level of
the Aux 1 and Aux 2 bus if selected to be
post fade. Level is adjusted from -infinity (off) to +15 dB relative to the trim
level of the inputs. Nominal level or
unity gain (0 dB) is at 12 O’ Clock.
2) A Button (A)
Selects various parameters depending
on the CL-8 View currently loaded.
3) B Button (B)
Selects various parameters depending
on the CL-8 View currently loaded.
4) Multipurpose LED
Displays post fade signal level in various colors and intensities to represent
the state of each channel. Green = signal
activity, Yellow = limiter activity, Red =
signal overload (clipping).
Illuminates solid red when the Input has
been muted. Inputs are muted from the
Input Settings Window.
Illuminates solid yellow when the channel has been selected for Pre Fade Listen
(PFL) in the headphone monitor. For
input PFL control, press A and B buttons
simultaneously while in the Main View.
5) Track L Indicator
Illuminates Blue when the respective Input has been routed to Track L. To route
the respective Input to Track L, press the
A button while in the CL-8 Main View.
6) Track R Indicator
Illuminates Blue when the respective Input has been routed to Track R. To route
the respective Input to Track R, press the
B button while in the CL-8 Main View.
80
v. 1.60
5
+15
6
+15
7
+15
8
8
4
8
+15
8
3
8
+15
8
2
8
+15
8
8
KEYBOARD
1
+15
7) Aux 1 Indicator
Illuminates green when the respective
input is routed to the Aux 1 (x1) track
pre-fade. Illuminates red when the respective input is routed to the Aux 1 (x1)
track post-fade. To route the respective
Input to Aux 1, press the A button while
in the CL-8 Aux Routing View. Press and
hold the A button to toggle between preand post-fade routing.
8) Aux 2 Indicator
Illuminates green when the respective
input is routed to the Aux 2 (x2) track
pre-fade. Illuminates red when the respective input is routed to the Aux 2 (x2)
track post-fade. To route the respective
Input to Aux 2, press the B button while
in the CL-8 Aux Routing View. Press and
hold the B button to toggle between preand post-fade routing.
9) LIM Indicator
Illuminates yellow when the Limiter
is engaged for the respective Input. To
engage the limiter, press the A button
while in the CL-8 Input Settings View.
10) Input Polarity
Illuminates blue when the Input Polarity has been inversed. To toggle between
normal and inverse input polarity, simultaneously press the A and B buttons
while in the CL-8 Input Setting View.
11) High-Pass Filter Indicator
Illuminates yellow when the HighPass Filter is engaged for the respective
Input. To engage the High-Pass Filter,
press the B button while in the CL-8 Iput
Settings View.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
CL-8 Side Panel Descriptors
1
2
3
ALT
SLATE
1) Alt Button
Press to toggle between the CL-8 Views
(Main, Aux Routing, and Input Settings).
See CL-8 Views for more details.
2) Slate Mic Button
Press and hold to activate the 788T
Slate Mic. To attenuate the Slate Mic
gain, activate the Slate Mic while turning the Multi Function Rotary Switch.
Gain is adjustable from -46 to 6 dB in
1 dB increments. Slate Mic gain is only
adjustable from the 788T Main LCD
Screen, the gain level is displayed momentarily in the Sampling Rate field of
the Main LCD screen. The Slate Mic can
be disabled in the Setup Menu option
SLATE MIC: MODE.
KEYBOARD
3) USB Keyboard Input
USB A Female Connector for USB
keyboards. This acts as a thru port to
the 788T USB Keyboard Input, which
is used to connect the CL-8 to the 788T.
This connector allows for simultaneous
keyboard and CL-8 control.
CL-8 Back Panel Descriptors
1
8
This device complies with the
FCC Rules, Part 15, Class B.
ALT
SLATE
1) USB Cable Bay
Remove the eight screws to access the
17-inch USB A to USB B cable. Adjust
cable length as needed. Replace this
cable as needed. For CL-8 operation,
connect the USB A Male connector to the
788T USB Keyboard Input.
Made In
Reedsburg, Wisconsin
USA
www.sounddevices.com
KEYBOARD
81
788T User Guide and Technical Information
CL-8 Views
The CL-8 allows for quick control of input-to-track routing and input settings on each Input. Use the
Alt button to toggle between the Main, Aux Routing, and Input Settings View.
Main View
The Main View is always the first of the CL-8 views to be displayed after startup or initial connection
of the CL-8. From the Main View the following settings are displayed for each input.
•
•
•
•
Input Activity
Left/Right Track Routing
Aux 1/Aux 2 Track Routing
Limiter Status
•
•
•
•
Input Polarity Status
High-Pass Filter Status
Solo (pre fade listen)
Input Mute
From the Main View, route any active input to Track L or Track R using the A and B buttons respectively. Solo any active input by simultaneously pressing the A and B buttons. Press the ALT button to
move to the Aux Routing View.
Aux Routing View
From the Aux Routing View any input can be routed to Track X1 (Aux 1) or X2 (Aux 2) by pressing
the A and B buttons respectively. While in the Aux Routing View the L, R, Lim, Input Polarity and
High-Pass Filter LED indicators are disabled. The Aux 1 and 2 LEDs will illuminate solid for any input that is currently routed to X1 and X2 tracks. The LED illuminates green when the input is routed
pre-fade to the Aux track. The LED illuminates red when the input is routed post-fade to the Aux
track. Toggle between pre and post fade routing by pressing and holding the A and B buttons for
each input. If the input hasn’t been assigned to an Aux track the LED will flash. Press the ALT button
to move to the Input Setting View.
Input Settings View
From the Input Settings View apply various input settings to any input. Press the A button to enable/disable the Limiter. Press the B button to enable/disable the High-Pass Filter. Simultaneously
press the A and B buttons to invert the polarity of the input.
While in the Input Settings View the L, R, Aux 1, and Aux 2 LED indicators are disabled. Limiter and
High-Pass Filter LEDs illuminate solid yellow when the respective input setting is enabled. Input
Polarity LEDs illuminate solid blue when the input’s polarity has been inverted. The LEDs will flash
82
v. 1.60
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
respectively on each input if the Limiter and High-Pass Filter are disabled and Input Polarity is normal. Press the ALT button to return to the Main View.
Slate Mic
The CL-8 activates the 788T’s built-in Slate Mic. Slate microphones are commonly used for notation
and communication purposes. The audio performance of the 788T’s built in Slate Mic is not suitable
for critical recording applications. The Slate Mic signal is sent to all outputs and record tracks. When
activated the Slate Mic overrides all available inputs and record tracks. The 788T Input Activity Ring
LEDs will illuminate solid yellow when the Slate Mic is active. In the Setup Menu, the Slate Mic can
be disabled to prevent unintended activation.
The Slate Mic gain level can be attenuated from -46 to 6 dB in 1 dB increments. Follow these steps to
attenuate the gain of the Slate Mic.
1.
Navigate to the 788T’s Main LCD Screen.
2.
Press and hold the SLATE button on the CL-8’s Left Panel.
3.
Turn the Multi Function Rotary Switch to adjust the gain. The gain level is momentarily displayed in
the Sample Rate field of the LCD display.
4.
Release the SLATE button to deactivate the Slate Mic.
83
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Setup Menu
The Setup Menu controls a wide range of parameters for the 788T, including audio routing, record
settings, and time code options. The Setup Menu is a single, flat architecture with no sub-menus,
making it easy to navigate. Each menu option controls a specific parameter with several selections.
The chart below shows the Setup Menu number, name, a description of the control, options available
within that menu, and the factory default setting where applicable.
#
1
Setup Name
Quick Setup
Description
Allows the user to quickly apply the
factory default menu setup and save/
retrieve user setups to and from the
INHDD or CF.
Options
Factory
Default
• Load User from INHDD
- applies settings saved by user to INHDD
• Load User from CF
- applies settings saved by user to CF
• Save User to INHDD
- saves present state to file on hard drive
• Save User to CF
- saves present state to file on CF
• Load Factory Settings
- restores the factory default settings
84
2
FireWire/USB:
Connection
Activates FireWire/USB connection..
3
Rec: Sample Rate
Sets the audio sampling frequency.
• 32 kHz
• 44.1 kHz
• 47.952 kHz
• 47.952k F
• 48 kHz
• 48.048 kHz
• 48.048k F
48 kHz
4
Rec: Bit Depth
Sets the bit depth of the recordings.
• 24
• 16
• 16 no dither
24
5
Rec: Sync Reference
Sets synchronization source. The
788T will sync to the chosen clock
source.
• Internal
• Wordclock Input
• Video Sync Input
• Digital Input 1,2
• Digital Input 3,4
• Digital Input 5,6
• Digital Input 7,8
Internal
6
Rec: File Type
Selects the file format (type)
recorded.
• .wav poly
• .wav mono
.wav poly
7
Rec: Media Select
Selects the storage media used for
recording. Media is selectable even
if it is not present. The 788T will only
record to 2 media when recording 9+
tracks.
8
Rec: Scene Name/Number
User-defined, alpha-numeric file
scene names can be pre-set and
selected from a list. Scene name lists
can be saved to the hard drive.
Up to 9 alpha-numeric characters
can be entered for the scene name.
Scene name can also be left blank.
• <None>
• <Add New Entry>
• <Load List From INHDD>
• <Save List From INHDD>
None
9
Rec: Scene Increment Mode
Selects which format the scene increments will use. To quickly increment a
scene name press and hold the Stop
key then press Fast Forward.
• Disabled
• Character (A,B,C...)
• Numeric (1,2,3...)
Character
v. 1.60
• INHDD Only
• CF Only
• EXHDD Only
• INHDD and CF
• EXHDD and INHDD
• EXHDD and CF
• EXHDD and INHDD and CF
EXHDD and
INHDD and CF
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
#
Setup Name
Description
Options
Factory
Default
10
Rec: Track Names
Allows user to give tracks more
descriptive names, which show up in
iXML and bEXT metadata.
11
Rec: Take Name/Number
Numeric, auto-incrementing number
used for take identification.
<selectable alpha character + integers up to
32000, with or without preceding 0’s>
T01
12
Rec: Take Reset Mode
Defines when take numbers are reset.
Reset brings take number to <1>.
• Never
- take numbers do not reset
Either scene or
daily
• Mix L
• Mix R
• Track A
• Track B
• Track C
• Track D
• Track E
• Track F
• Track G
• Track H
• Track Aux 1
• Track Aux 2
• Mix
• Boom
• <Add New Entry>
• <Load List From INHDD>
• <Save List From INHDD>
Track L = Mix L
Track R = Mix R
Track A = Track A
Track B = Track B
Track C = Track C
Track D = Track D
Track E = Track E
Track F = Track F
Track G = Track G
Track H = Track H
Track X1 = Aux 1
Track X2 = Aux 2
• When scene is changed
- take resets when scene name is changed
• When daily folder changes
- takes reset on new day
• Either scene or daily
- takes reset on either change
13
Rec: Pre-Roll Time
Sets the amount of time that is recorded prior to pressing the REC key.
0–10 sec. @ 48 kHz
2 Seconds
14
Rec: Timer Start
Sets a specific start time/date for
unattended recording. Unit must be
powered.
<enter time, date>
(disabled)
15
Rec: Timer Stop
Sets a specific time/date to stop
recording. May be used with or
without the Rec: Timer Start. May
be set before the Timer Start time to
temporarily stop recording and then
resume recording with Timer Start.
<enter time, date>
(disabled)
16
Rec: Record Indicator
Sets how the large display looks
when the unit enters record.
• Normal Numbers
• Reverse Numbers
• Flash Numbers
Normal Numbers
17
Input: Track Routing
Allows the user to setup the routing
matrix among all available inputs and
tracks. There are preset routings and
three custom routings available.
• 2 track (1:L, 2:R)
• 2 track (1:A, 2:B)
• 4 track (1:L..4:B)
• 4 track (1:A..4:D)
• 6 track (1:L..6:D)
• 6 track (1:A..6:F)
• 8 track (1:L..8:F)
• 8 track (1:A..8:H)
• 1 mix (L), 6 Iso (A-F)
• 1 mix (L), 8 Iso (A-H)
• 2 mix (L,R) 6 Iso (A-F)
• 2 mix (L,R), 8 Iso (A-H)
• Custom Route 1
• Custom Route 2
• Custom Route 3
• Edited
• 2 mix (L,R) 6 Iso
(A-F)
Press and hold the STOP key then
press the INPUT key repeatedly to
cycle through all preset routings. This
only routes Inputs to Tracks, Track
arming is done independently in the
Track Settings Window.
Input 1 = Track L,A
Input 2 = Track R,B
Input 3 = Track L,C
Input 4 = Track R,D
Input 5 = Track L,E
Input 6 = Track R,F
85
788T User Guide and Technical Information
#
Setup Name
Description
Options
Factory
Default
18
Input: Linking, MS
Selects whether the input levels
are controlled independently, as
stereo pairs, with or without mid-side
decoding, or multiple inputs grouped
together.
19
Input: Front Panel Controls
Sets the Input Gain Potentiometers to
act as Faders or Trims. When set to
Fader Controls, the Multifunction Rotary Switch will control the trim level
of the input from the Input Settings
Window. When set to Trim Controls,
the gain pots will only effect trim level.
This menu option is unavailable when
the CL-8 is connected.
• Trim Controls
• Fader Controls
Trim Controls
20
Input: Limiter Threshold
Selects the threshold at which the input limiters will become active across
all inputs where the input limiter has
been enabled in the Input Settings
Window.
-12 to -2 dBFS attenuated by .1 dB increments
-6 dBFS
21
Input: Limiter Recovery
Adjusts the recovery time of the
limiter in milliseconds.
50 to 2000 msec adjustable in 10 msec increments
200 msec
22
Input: Limiter Knee
This selects the response characteristic of the limiters as the Limiter
threshold is reached.
• Hard-Knee
• Soft-Knee
Hard-Knee
23
Input: Low Cut Slope
Selects the amount of slope of the
high-pass (low cut) filter. Frequency
roll off point is selectable in the Input
Settings Window from 40 to 320 Hz in
10 Hz increments.
• 6 dB/oct
• 12 dB/oct
12 dB/oct
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
Input 1: Delay
Input 2: Delay
Input 3: Delay
Input 4: Delay
Input 5: Delay
Input 6: Delay
Input 7: Delay
Input 8: Delay
Sets a digital delay for each input.
Can be used to compensate for delay
in various digital wireless microphone
units or digital processors.
0 to 30 milliseconds, 0.1 mS increments
Input 1 = 0 mS
Input 2 = 0 mS
Input 3 = 0 mS
Input 4 = 0 mS
Input 5 = 0 mS
Input 6 = 0 mS
Input 7 = 0 mS
Input 8 = 0 mS
32
Input: PFL Function
Sets the headphone monitor behavior
when an input is selected using the
Input Selector Switch. When enabled,
the input will be soloed in the headphone monitor. When disabled, the
Input Settings Window will appear but
the headphone monitor will remain
unaffected.
• Enable PFL
• Disable PFL
• Disable PFL with CL-8 Connected
Enable PFL
33
File: Marker Mode
Enables the user to set cue points
or begin recording a new take by
pressing the REC key while in Record
mode.
• Markers disabled
REC key does nothing when pressed in
Record mode.
New File
• Unlinked
• 1-2
• 1-4
• 1-6
• 1-8
• 3-4
• 5-6
• 7-8
• 5-6, 7-8
• 1-2, 3-4
• 1-2, 3-4, 5-6
• 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
• 1-2MS
• 3-4MS
• 5-6MS
• 7-8MS
• 1-2MS, 3-4MS
• 1-2MS, 3-4MS, 5-6MS
• 1-2MS, 3-4MS, 5-6MS, 7-8MS
Unlinked
• New Cue
Cue markers are set every time the REC key
is pressed in Record mode.
• New File
A new file is started with each press of the
REC key, the take counter is increased by one.
86
v. 1.60
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
#
34
Setup Name
File: Max Size
Description
Selects the file size when the 788T
will close, then start a new file. The
788T will not record a file larger than
the selected size.
The largest file permissible with the
788T’s FAT32 file system is 4 GB
Options
• 4 GB
• 2 GB
• 1 GB CF
• 640 MB
• 4 GB CF (3.6 GB)
• 2 GB CF (1.8 GB)
• 1 GB CF (950 MB)
• 512MB CF (450 MB)
2 GB CF (1.8 GB)
35
File: Folder Options
Allows the user to organize files in
root and sub-folders. For no folders,
select <None> on every level.
36
File: View Files
Enters the file directory tree for the
selected drive.
Highlight media descriptor to navigate the
menu
37
File: View Take List
Allows the user to view the last 200
takes. Takes can be designated as
Circled Takes or False Takes from the
Take List.
• Take • Take +
• Circle
38
File: Copy Files
Allows the user to select a file or a
range of files to be copied from one
storage media to another. Files will
only be copied from their current
directory to a directory of the same
name on the other media. If a file will
not fit on the destination media, the
user is given the option to skip that
file and continue with the copy or
abort copying all together. After the
copy process has been completed,
the recorder will display how many
files were successfully copied.
• Copy all {drive} {drive}
• Last 24 hr {drive} {drive}
• Last 48 hr {drive} {drive}
• Flagged {drive} {drive}
• TOP-LEVEL
(Project)
•MID-LEVEL (Roll)
• BOTTOM-LEVEL
(Scene)
Factory
Default
<None>, <Add new entry>
<None>,<Add new entry>,
<Daily>
<None>, <Add new
entry>, <Scene>
None
All files, when recorded, automatically have
their flag bit set to “on”
39
File: Copy Flag Reset
Selects whether the flag bit is cleared
or not on files copied from one media
to another.
• Disabled
• Enabled
Enabled
40
Time Code: Frame Rate
Sets the time code frame rate. All
common time code frame rates are
available.
• 23.976
• 24
• 25
• 29.97
• 29.97DF
• 30
• 30DF
• 30+
30
41
Time Code: Mode
Sets the mode for the time code
generator
• Off
• Free Run
• Free Run - Jam Once
• Record Run
• 24 Hr Run
• Ext TC
• Ext TC/cont
• Ext TC-Auto Record
• Ext TC/cont-Auto Record
Free Run
42
Time Code: Hold Off
Sets the duration that a valid time
code signal has to be recognized by
the 788T before generating a new
take while in Ext TC-Auto Record and
Ext TC/cont-Auto Record modes.
0.0 to 8.0 seconds adjustable in increments of
.1 seconds
2.0 sec
87
788T User Guide and Technical Information
#
43
Setup Name
Time Code: User Bits
Description
Sets the time code user bits generated by the 788T.
Options
mm – month
dd – day of week
yy – year
tt – take number
uu – user-defined
• Not Used – user bits are not set or output
• mm:dd:yy.tt
• dd:mm:yy.tt
• uu:uu:tt:tt – user bits are set to 4 user definable digits with 4 take digits
• uu:uu:uu:uu
• tt:tt:tt.tt – user bits are set to the take counter for all 8 digits
• mm:dd:yy:uu
• dd:mm:yy:uu
Factory
Default
mm:dd:yy.tt
44
Time Code: Jam Menu
Allows the user to jam or edit the
internal time code generator and user
bits. (Also accessible by pressing
HDD and MENU keys simultaneously).
• Jam RX TC
• Jam Zeros
• Jam Value
• Edit Value
• Edit U-Bit
45
Time Code: Display Mode
Selects the source of the large
numerical display.
• Big A-time
• Big time code
46
47
48
49
50
51
Output 1: Source
Output 2: Source
Output 3: Source
Output 4: Source
Output 5: Source
Output 6: Source
Selects the signal source for the each
of the 6 analog and digital outputs.
52
53
54
55
56
57
Output 1: Analog Gain
Output 2: Analog Gain
Output 3: Analog Gain
Output 4: Analog Gain
Output 5: Analog Gain
Output 6: Analog Gain
Sets the attenuation level of each
analog output bus.
Selectable from -20 to 0 dB in 1 dB increments
Output 1 = -4 dB
Output 2 = -4 dB
Output 3 = -4 dB
Output 4 = -4 dB
Output 5 = -4 dB
Output 6 = -4 dB
58
Digital Input: AES42 Power
Provides +10 V of Digital Phantom
Power to each digital input. Never
apply digital phantom to unbalanced
digital inputs, as this can result in
damage to the hardware.
• Disabled
• Enabled
Disabled
59
Digital Output: Mode
Selects whether or not the consumer
SPDIF bit is applied or not in the
AES3id output.
• Consumer
• Professional
Professional
60
Play: AutoPlay Mode
Allows the user to play file(s) consecutively from a select directory, one
time through or continuously.
• Disabled
• Play all
• Repeat one
• Repeat all
Play all
Great for playing an MP3 collection
during down time!
• Input 1
• Input 2
• Input 3
• Input 4
• Input 5
• Input 6
• Input 7
• Input 8
• Track L
• Track R
• Track A
Big A-time
• Track B
• Track C
• Track D
• Track E
• Track F
• Track G
• Track H
• Track X1
• Track X2
• HP Mix Left
• HP Mix Right
Output 1 = Track L
Output 2 = Track R
Output 3 = Track A
Output 4 = Track B
Output 5 = Track C
Output 6 = Track D
61
Time/Date: 12/24 Hr
Selects between 12- and 24-hour
formats.
• 12 hr
• 24 hr
12 hr
62
Time/Date: Date Format
Selects the date syntax of the
recorder.
• mm/dd/yy
• dd/mm/yy
mm/dd/yy
63
Time/Date: Set
Sets the internal date and time of
the 788T.
<time, date>
Clock is not set until <done> is selected
Resetting the time re-jams the internal time code generator to the set
time. Setting the internal clock during
a production day will require time
code devices to be re-jammed.
88
v. 1.60
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
#
Setup Name
Description
Options
Factory
Default
64
LCD: Contrast
Adjusts the contrast level of the LCD
display.
0–100%
50%
65
LCD: Backlight Mode
Enables or disables the LCD
backlight color from indicating that
the 788T is in Record, Playback, or
Standby.
• White/Green/Red
• Red on Record Only
• Green on Play Only
• White Only
White/Green/Red
66
Meter: Ballistics
Selects among three different meter
ballistics settings
• VU only
• Peak only
• Peak + VU
Peak + VU
67
Meter: Peak Hold Time
Adjusts the duration for which the
peak LED stays illuminated.
0 to 5 seconds adjustable in increments of
.1 sec
0 seconds
68
Meter: Input Peak Threshold
Sets the level in which the Input
Activity Ring LEDS will illuminate red.
Selectable from -1 to -20 dBFS in 1 dB increments
-3 dBFS
69
Meter: Input LED Ring Mode
Enables or disables Input Activity
Ring LEDs by color.
• Red and Green enabled
• Red only enabled
• Green only enabled
• Red and Green Off
Red and Green
enabled
70
Meter: Stealth Mode
Enables the LEDs to toggle On and
Off with the LCD BACKLIGHT.
• Off
• On
Off
71
HP: Rotary Switch Function
Selects the function activated when
the Multi-Function Rotary Switch
is pressed in while in Record and
Playback.
• Disabled:
pressing in on the switch, makes no change to
the headphone matrix.
Selects Favorite
Mode
• Selects Favorite Mode:
in Record and Playback, pressing in on the
switch will change the headphone source
immediately to the favorite selected in HP:
Favorite Mode.
• Playback Drive Select
pressing in on the switch toggles between the
available storage media for Playback.
72
HP: Monitor Modes
Selects the modes and the sequence
in which they appear in the Headphone Source Display.
Inputs 1,2
Inputs 3,4
Inputs 5,6
Inputs 7,8
Tracks L,R
Tracks A,B
Tracks C,D
Tracks E,F
Tracks G,H
Tracks X1,X2
Input 1
Input 2
Input 3
Input 4
Input 5
Input 6
Input 7
Input 8
Track L
Track R
Track A
Track B
Track C
Track D
Track E
Track F
Track G
Track H
Track X1
Track X2
Inputs 1,2 (MS)
Inputs 3,4 (MS)
Inputs 5,6 (MS)
Inputs 7,8 (MS)
Tracks L,R (MS)
Tracks A,B (MS)
Tracks C,D (MS)
Tracks E,F (MS)
Tracks G,H (MS)
Tracks X1,X2 (MS)
Inputs 1-4
Inputs 1-6
Inputs 1-8
Tracks LA, RB
Tracks LAC, RBD
Tracks LACE, RBDF
Tracks LACEG,RBDFH
Tracks LACEGx1,RBDFHx2
Tracks LRAB
Tracks LRABCD
Tracks LRABCDEF
Tracks LRABCDEFGH
Tracks LRABCDEFGHX1X2
Tracks LR
Tracks LRA
Tracks LRB
Tracks LRC
Tracks LRD
Tracks LRE
Tracks LRF
Tracks LRG
Tracks LRH
Tracks LRX1
Tracks LRX2
Input B-format stereo
Track B-format stereo
1) Tracks L,R
2) Tracks X1,X2
3) Tracks L
4) Tracks R
5) Tracks A
6) Tracks B
7) Tracks C
8) Tracks D
9) Tracks E
10) Tracks F
11) Tracks G
12) Tracks H
13) Tracks X1
14) Tracks X2
15) Tracks LRABCDEFGHX1X2
16) Inputs 1,2
17) Inputs 3,4
18) Inputs 5,6
19) Inputs 7,8
20) Input 1
21) Input 2
22) Input 3
23) Input 4
24) Input 5
25) Input 6
26) Input 7
27) Input 8
28) Inputs1-8, 1-8
89
788T User Guide and Technical Information
#
90
Setup Name
Description
Options
Factory
Default
73
HP: Favorite Mode
Selects the audio source monitored
when the Multi-Function Rotary
Switch is pressed during Record or
Playback.
Any of the HP: Monitor Modes can be selected
as the HP: Favorite Mode. See the above
chart for options.
Tracks L,R
74
HP: Playback Mode
Selects the audio source sent to the
headphones during Playback.
• No change
• Same options listed in HP: Monitor Modes
Tracks L,R
75
HP: Warning Bell Level
Sets the output level of the warning
bell.
off, −60 to –12 dBFS in 1 dB steps
-30 dBFS
76
HP: Rec/Stop Bell
Alerts the user with one beep at the
start of recording and two beeps
when the recording is stopped
• Disabled
• Enabled
Enabled
77
HP: Power Up Gain
Selects the level at which the
headphone gain level will be set upon
power up.
• Last Gain
• Midpoint Gain (0 dB)
• Off
Last Gain
78
Tone: Level
Sets the reference tone’s output level.
−40 to 0 dBFS in 1 dB steps
-20 dBFS
79
Tone: Frequency
Sets the tone oscillator frequency.
100–10,000 Hz in 10 Hz steps
1000 Hz
80
Tone: Mode
Selects the reference tone’s
destination(s).
• Disabled
• To record tracks only
• To outputs only
• To record tracks and outputs
To record tracks
and outputs
81
Slate Mic: Mode
Slate Mic is only enabled when the
CL-8 is attached.
• Disabled
• To record tracks and outputs
To record tracks
and outputs
82
Drive: Speed Tests
Performs a write/read speed test on
the internal hard drive, CompactFlash, and external drives. Data
transfer speed is measured in KB/s.
Caution: Drive test will disable processing and
mute outputs for duration of test. Outputs will
not return until test is exited.
83
Balance Cal
Calibrates the center position of
the even input (2,4,6,8) pots when
used as the balance control for MS
recording.
Place balance control to center and press to
select.
84
Power: Ext Low Batt Volt
Sets the external low battery warning
point. The internal low battery level is
not user-adjustable.
10.0–18.0 VDC, 0.1 V steps
10.0 Volts
85
Power: Ext Power Function
Controls the behavior of the unit
when power is applied to the external
DC jack.
• Do Nothing
• Power On Unit
• Power On and Start Record
• Power On/Off unit
• Power On/Off unit and Record
Do Nothing
86
Power: Battery Charger
Determines when the Sony L-Mount
will charge when connected to
external power.
• Off
• Charge only when unit is on
• Charge only when unit is off
• Always charge
Always charge
87
Keyboard/Logic In: Assign
Define functionality and keyboard
shortcuts when using the USB keyboard and Logic Input.
88
CL-1: Reprogram
The CL-1 has its own firmware which
is supplied from the 788T. This utility
updates the CL-1 firmware.
89
CL-1: Logic Out Assign
Each logic output pin can be assigned to go high when the unit is in
the selected mode. Logic input overrides logic output selection.
• Undefined
• Stop
• Play
• Pause
• Record
Undefined
90
CL-1: Keyboard: Language
Select the language of the keyboard
attached to the CL-1.
• English
• German
• French
English
v. 1.60
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
#
Setup Name
Description
91
Logic Out Assign
Defines Logic Output behavior . Logic
input overrides logic output selection.
92
Info: Button Shortcuts
An informative menu showing the
available keyboard shortcuts.
93
Info: Version
Shows the current firmware revision,
1394 revision, and serial number of
the unit.
94
Update Software
Used to install new firmware. It will
search both internal hard drive and
Compact Flash media for the firmware file and prompt to update.
Options
• Undefined
• High Upon Record
• Low Upon Record
Factory
Default
Set High On
Record
User Setup Data File
User settings can be saved to the internal hard drive or to a CF card. Save and recall user setup
files in the Setup Menu option QUICK SETUP. User setups are saved as binary files with the name
788T.SUP and are located in the SOUNDDEV folder of the select media.
Scene, Track, and Folder Names entered by the user, are not saved in the 788T.SUP file.
Setup Menu Shortcuts
The Setup Menu can be quickly navigated by using the Multi-Function Rotary Switch to scroll up
and down through the menu. Additionally, shortcuts, or “bread crumbs” can be placed on oftenused menu items. A bread crumb is set by holding the PLAY key. A small dot is shown to the left of
the Setup Menu number. Any number of bread crumbs can be set, but their utility is reduced when
too many have been applied.
toggles among menu bread
crumbs to lower numbered
items
with no bread crumbs placed,
moves to a previous general
menu section
press and hold to set or remove a menu crumb;
single press navigates to menu item #1
toggles among menu bread
crumbs to higher numbered
items
with no bread crumbs placed,
moves to the next general
menu section
91
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Front Panel Button Shortcuts
To speed navigation the 788T has numerous navigation “shortcuts”. For combinations, press and
hold down the first identified key then press the next identified key(s).
Function
Key Sequence
+
Jam Menu
+
MENU + HDD
Enters the Time Code Jam Menu.
+
LCD BACKLIGHT + TONE
Press the LCD BACKLIGHT then the TONE key to lock all front panel
buttons except for the REC, STOP and PLAY keys. FAST FORWARD
and REWIND keys are available in Playback mode. Use the LCD
BACKLIGHT and TONE keys again to unlock the panel.
Button Lock
INPUT
Press the INPUT key to access the Track Setup Window. Meter all 12
available tracks and arm/disarm tracks for recording.
Track Setup
Input
Routing
+
STOP + INPUT
Press and hold the STOP key and press the INPUT key to cycle
through input routing presets and custom routings.
Connect
FireWire
+
STOP + HDD
Initiates FireWire/USB connection.
False
Take
+
STOP + REWIND
Delete last take prompt.
Scene
Increment
+
STOP + FAST FORWARD
Increments Scene Name to be recorded for the next file.
Take List /
Drive Directory /
Toggle Drives
HDD
Press once to enter the Take List. Press twice to enter the Drive
Directory. Hold the HDD key down for 1 second to toggle between
viewable drives
LED Meter View
Toggle
LCD BACKLIGHT
Press to toggle between the LED Level Meter VU1 (Tracks C, D, E,
F) and VU2 (Tracks G, H, X1, X2).
Backlight /
LED Level
Flashlight
Mode
92
Action
REC + TONE
While recording hold the REC key and press then press the TONE
key. Tone will be active as long as the TONE key is held. Markers
must be disabled in the Setup Menu option File: Marker Mode.
Record Tone
v. 1.60
+ Rotary Switch
+
+
LCD BACKLIGHT + Multi-Function Rotary Switch
Press and hod the LCD Backlight key and turn the Multi Function
Rotary Switch to adjust the level of LED brightness. Press and hold
the LCD Backlight key and press in on the Multi Function Rotary
Switch to turn on the LCD Backlight.
REWIND + PLAY + STOP
With the unit powered down, hold down these keys while powering
the unit to enter Flashlight mode. This illuminates all LEDs. Press the
PWR key again to exit.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Connector Pin Assignments
Each connector type, electrical characteristics, and pin assignment is shown below.
Connector
Pin Assignments
Notes
XLR
Analog Inputs 1-4
1 – ground
2 – signal (+)
3 – signal (-)
3.3k ohm input impedance, Mic- and Line-level activebalanced
TA3M
Analog Inputs 5-8
1 – ground
2 – signal (+)
3 – signal (-)
3.3k ohm input impedance, Mic- and Line-level activebalanced
TA3M
Analog Outputs 1-4
1 – ground
2 – signal (+)
3 – signal (-)
200 ohm output impedance, active balanced.
For unbalanced connection, pin-1 ground, pin-2 (+) positive, pin-3 (-) negative. Mates with Switchcraft TA3F-type
connector.
3.5 mm
Analog Output 5,6
tip – signal L
ring – signal R
sleeve – signal ground
Mates with 3.5 mm TRS jack. Signal is unbalanced.
TA3M
AES Outputs 1-4
1 – ground
2 – signal (+)
3 – signal (-)
Mates with TA3F-type connectors., 110 ohm, transformerbalanced
3.5 mm
Headphone
tip – signal L
ring – signal R
sleeve – signal ground
Mates with 3.5 mm TRS jack.
1/4-inch Female
Headphone
tip – signal L
ring – signal R
sleeve – signal ground
Mates with 1/4-inch TRS jack.
5-pin LEMO
Time code
1 – ground
2 – SMPTE TC In
3 – ASCII in/out
4 – tuning out
5 – SMPTE TC out
LEMO B-series connector, pin assignments as viewed on
panel-mounted connector
Sync Input
center pin – signal
sleeve – ground
BNC female, unbalanced, coaxial connection, 75 ohm
connectors recommended
Word Clock Output
center pin – signal
sleeve – ground
BNC female, unbalanced, coaxial connection, 75 ohm
connectors recommended
FireWire 400
(IEEE-1394a)
center pin – signal
sleeve – ground
6-pin male FireWire 400 IEEE-1394a
center pin – signal
sleeve – ground
9-pin male FireWire 800 IEEE-1394b. Backward compatible with FireWire 400 IEEE-1394a to IEEE-1394b
connections.
center pin – signal
sleeve – ground
Data transfer connection to computers only..
center pin – signal
sleeve – ground
For use with USB Keyboards only. Data transfer is not
supported.
FireWire 800
(IEEE-1394b)
FW800
USB-B
USB
USB-A Keyboard Input
C. Link In / Out
Hirose 4-pin
DC Input
Not a telephone jack! Not active.
1 – ground
2 – not connected
3 – not connected
4 – DC (+)
Charging characteristics defined by user in the Setup
Menu.
93
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Connector
DE-15
Multi-Function Connector
AES I/O, GPIO, PWR
Pin Assignments
Notes
1 – AES 3,4 Input (+)
2 – AES 1,2 Input (+)
3 – AES 5,6 Output (+)
4 – AES 7,8 Input (+)
5 – AES 5,6 Input (+)
6 – EXT DC (-) Ground
7 – EXT DC (-) Ground
8 – LOGIC Output
9 – LOGIC Input
10 – EXT DC +10V to 18V
11 – AES 3,4 Input (-)
12 – AES 1,2 Input (-)
13 – AES 5,6 Output (-)
14 – AES 7,8 Input (-)
15 – AES 5,6 Input (-)
The D-Sub connector provides 8 channels of balanced
AES input, 2 channels of AES outputs, GPIO and External
DC powering and is therefore ideal as a single umbilical connection between the 788T and an external digital
mixer.
Specifications
System
Sampling Frequency
internal: 32, 44.1, 47.952, 48, 48.048
external clocking: 32–48.048 kHz via word clock or digital inputs
AES/EBU inputs can accept signals from 32-192 kHz when sync reference = internal (SRC enabled).
Internal Data Path
and Processing
32 bit, 192 dB dynamic range
A/D, D/A Converters
24 bit, 48.048 kHz maximum sampling rate
A/D Dynamic Range
123 dB, A-weighted bandwidth
120 dB, 20 Hz–22 kHz bandwidth
D/A Dynamic Range
114 dB, A-weighted bandwidth
111 dB, 20 Hz–22 kHz bandwidth
Metering
112-segment (8 x 14), sunlight-viewable,
selectable peak, VU, or peak (with or without peak hold) with VU ballistics, variable brightness
Input to Output Delay
1.4 msec, from XLR Analog Inputs to all Outputs (with 0.0 Delay selected in the Setup Menu)
Analog Input
(all measurements at Fs 48 kHz, 24 bit unless noted)
94
v. 1.60
Frequency Response
Mic or Line: 10 Hz–20 kHz, +0.1, −0.5 dB (gain controls centered)
THD + Noise
Mic: 0.004% max (1 kHz, 22 Hz–22 kHz BW, gain control down, −15 dBu input)
Line: 0.004% max (1 kHz, 22 Hz–22 kHz BW, gain control down, +16 dBu input)
Gain
(input dBu to −20 dBFS)
Mic: Off, 0 to 76 dB
Line: Off, -26 to 50 dB
Input Impedance
Mic (XLR and TA3): 3.3k ohm
Line (XLR and TA3): 3.3k ohm
Input Clipping Level
Mic: +8 dBu minimum (gain = 10 dB)
Line: + 26 dB minimum (gain = 0 dB)
Input Topology
Mic and Line: fully electronically balanced, RF, ESD, short, and overload protected;
pin-2 hot, pin-3 cold
Gain Matching
Mic/Line inputs: ±0.1 dB, channel-to-channel while linked
Common Mode Rejection Ratio
Mic: 40 dB minimum at 80 Hz
High-Pass Filters
40-320 Hz in 10Hz steps @ 6/12 dB/oct (Setup Menu selectable)
Mic Powering
(each analog Input selectable)
48 V phantom through 6.8k resistors, 10 mA per mic available, menu-selected per input in
Mic- or Line-level positions
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
Mic/Line Input Limiters
Variable threshold -12 to -2 dBFS; Infinite:1 limiting ratio, 2 msec attack time, menu-selectable release time 50-2000 msec, menu-selectable hard- or soft-knee (soft-knee starts
approximately 6 dB below setting)..
Output Analog
Line Output Clipping Level
+24 dBu, 10k ohm load
Attenuation & Resolution
0–20 dB, 1 dB increments
Output Topology
Line: fully electronically-balanced, RF, ESD, short, and overload protected; pin-2 driven hot,
pin-3 driven cold; let pin-3 float for unbalanced connections.
Inputs/Outputs – Digital
AES3
Balanced AES out 1-4 on TA3 connector; Balanced AES out 5-6 on DE-15 connector110 ohm, 2 V p-p, AES and S/
PDIF compatible with RCA adaptor Balanced AES in 1-8 on DE-15 connector110 ohm, 2 V p-p, AES and S/PDIF
compatible with RCA adaptor
AES42
AES42 Mode 1 operating system, provides +10 V Digital Phantom Power to Digital Input pairs (menu-selectable).
Digital Storage
Internal hard drive
SATA interface 2.5-in hard drive 4200–7200 RPM supported, FAT32 formatted, up to 2 TB addressable
CompactFlash
CF type I, II, and + (microdrive) compatible, UDMA (x300) compatible, FAT32 formatted, up to
2TB addressable.
File Types
Record: WAV (AES-31 format), mono or polyphonic, at supported Fs, 24-bit or 16-bit
Playback: WAV (AES-31 format), mono or polyphonic, at supported Fs, 24-bit or 16-bit
MP3 @ 32, 64, 96, 128, 160, 192, 256, or 320 kb/s stereo
MP2 @ 64, 96, 128, 160, 192, 256, or 320, 384 kb/s stereo
Utilities
format, speed test, and repair utility for internal HD, CF, and external drive volumes
Data Transfer / Control
FireWire 400
For connection to ext drives and computers: IEEE-1394a compliant, 6-pin FireWire, Windows
2000, XP, Vista, Mac OS 10.4+ only
FireWire 800
For connection to ext drives and computers: IEEE-1394b compliant, 8-pin FireWire, Windows
2000, XP, Vista, Mac OS 10.4+ only
USB 2.0
Slave mode only. For connection to Windows 2000, XP, Vista, Mac OS 10.4+ only
USB Keyboard Input
For connection to USB keyboards for entering notes and controlling features and functions of the
788T via user selectable keyboard shortcuts.
Time Code and Sync
Modes Supported
off, free run, record run, 24 hour run, external time code receive
Frame Rates
23.976, 24, 25, 29.97DF, 29.97ND, 30DF, 30ND, 30+
Accuracy
Holds TC clock for four hours after main battery removal; after four hours, retains time of day
Input / Output
20k ohm impedance, 0.3V p-p (–8 dBu) minimum / 1k ohm impedance, 3.0V p-p (+12 dBu)
Sync Input
Word Clock, AES3, Video (NTSC, PAL, and Tri-Level)
Word Clock Output
Square wave, running at sample rate, 3.3vp-p, 75 ohm.
Power
Power supply (batteries)
operating cell, removable 7.2 V (nominal) Sony L-type Li-ion, operational from 6.5–8.5 V,
time code battery, 3.6 Li-Ion,
time and date battery, 3 V coin cell
Power supply (external)
10–18 V, 1000 mA minimum, via locking 4-pin Hirose connector, use Hirose #HR10-7P-4P
(DigiKey# HR100-ND) for locking mating DC connector; pin-1 (−), pin-4 (+). See Powering
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Environmental
Operation and Storage
ambient temperature 5–55° C,
relative humidity (non-condensing) <80%
Other
Tone Oscillator
100 Hz–10 kHz, variable output, assigned to tracks or outputs (menu-selectable)
Dimensions and Weight
Size
45 mm x 257 mm x 163 mm (H x W x D)
1.8” x 10.1” x 6.4”
Mass
unpackaged: 1.7 kg, (3 lbs 12 oz.) without battery
Appendix A - Recording Time Calculation
The calculation of available 788T recording time involves three factors:
• track count - how many concurrent audio tracks will be recorded.
• data rate - calculated from the sampling rate and bit depth for non-compressed audio and by
bit rate for data compressed audio. Data rate determines how big the data “container” is for the
audio signal (see the calculation below for determining PCM audio).
• storage capacity - typically expressed in GB
Uncompressed Recording Time in Track-Hours
(1000 MB = 1 GB)
Storage in GB
Data Rate (bit depth/sampling rate), one track
16/44.1
(5.05 MB/min)
16/48
(5.49 MB/min)
24/48
(8.24 MB/min)
1
3.30
3.03
2.02
2
6.60
6.07
4.05
4
13.2
12.1
8.09
8
26.4
24.3
16.2
15
49.5
45.5
30.3
40
132
121
80.9
60
198
182
121
80
264
242
161.8
100
330
303
202
160
528
484
323.6
The chart above shows recording time available with the 788T. Time is expressed in hours per track
(track-hours) at the specified data rate supported by the 788T. If recording two tracks, divide the
track hours figure by two. Similarly for eight-track recording, divide track-hours by eight. Note that
the 788T supports additional sampling rate / bit depth combinations, however, only the most common are included below.
Record Time
The chart shows that when recording 24-bit/48 kHz audio to a 40 GB hard drive, the maximum duration of available recording time is roughly 80 track-hours. If recording a stereo two-track file, this
yields 40 stereo hours of record time.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Note that most storage media now quote capacity in GB using SI units, where 1000 megabytes equals one
gigabyte.
PCM Audio
Uncompressed digital audio is expressed numerically by two measurements, bit depth and sampling
frequency, such as 16-bit/48 kHz. These two numbers are used to compute the data rate of uncompressed audio.
Audio Data Rate = Bit Depth x Sampling Frequency
In the example below, the data rate of a single 16-bit/48 kHz audio stream is computed in megabytes
per minute. Division by 1,048,576 converts from bits to megabits. Division by 8 converts from megabits to megabytes; multiply by 60 converts seconds to minutes.
((16 x 48000) / 1,048,576) / 8) x 60 = 5.49 MB/min
Appendix B – Metadata Implementation
788T Broadcast wave files include iXML (revision 1.5) data and bEXT chunk data. For bEXT and
iXML-aware software applications this data is available. For applications that don’t recognize bEXT
or iXML, this information is ignored. The chart below details the supported metadata parameters.
• iXML: Metadata stored in the Broadcast Wave iXML chunk
• bEXT: Metadata stored in the Broadcast Wave bEXT chunk
• FMT: Metadata stored in the Broadcast Wave Format chunk
= supported; blank = not supported
Metadata
Type
Notes
Read
Write
U = Entered by User
M = Automatically Entered by the Machine
General Information
Project
iXML
U; via Folder Options menu
Roll (Tape)
iXML, bEXT
U; via Folder Options menu
Scene
iXML, bEXT
U; via Scene Name menu
Take
iXML, bEXT
U; via Take Name menu or M
Notes
iXML, bEXT
U; via HDD menu
Circle Take
iXML
U; via Take List menu
File UID
iXML
M; Unique File Identifier
File Sample Rate
iXML, FMT
U; via the Sample Rate menu
Digitizer Sample Rate
iXML
U; Actual sample rate of AD converter
Bit Depth
iXML, FMT
U; via Bit Depth menu
Channels
iXML, FMT
U; Number of channels (tracks) in the file
Time Code Information
Frame Rate
iXML, bEXT
U; via Frame Rate menu
TC Flag (ND or NDF)
iXML, bEXT
U; via Frame Rate menu
Start Time Code
iXML, bEXT
M; Stored as a sample count since midnight
Duration
M
U-Bits
iXML, bEXT
U
Time Code Sample Rate
iXML
M
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Track Information
Channel Index
iXML
M; Track Number
Interleave Index
iXML
M
Track Name
iXML, bEXT
U; via Track Names menu or HDD menu
Master Speed
iXML
M
Current Speed
iXML
M
Speed Note
iXML
M
Speed Information
Metadata
Type
Notes
Read
Write
U = Entered by User
M = Automatically Entered by the Machine
Originator Information
Originator
bEXT
M
Creation Date
bEXT
M
Creation Time
bEXT
M
Originator Reference
bEXT
M
Software Version
bEXT
M
Family UID
iXML
M; shared by files belonging to the same take
Total Files
iXML
M; number of files representing a take
File Set Index
iXML
M
iXML
M
File Set Information
File History
Original File Name
Appendix C – File Naming
Files generated by the 788T are named using a syntax made up of four parts: scene name/number,
take name/number, mono track designator (if mono file is selected), and file extension.
S001T01_1.WAV
scene
number
take
number
mono
file
designator
extension
Monophonic WAV File Track Number Designators
When recording monophonic Broadcast WAV files each track is recorded in a separate data file. To
help identify each track, each filename incorporates an underscore and track number suffix. The file
of the first track recorded has “_1” appended to it. The file name suffix, _1, _2, _3, _4, _5, _6, _7, _8,
_9, _A, _B, and _C always corresponds to tracks L, R, A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, X1, X2 . For instance, if
track D is the only track recorded, file name suffix will be _6.
Duplicate File Names
When the 788T detects that a duplicate file name is going to be generated in any specific folder, the
788T changes the file name by adding of a letter suffix before the extension. For instance, if take
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
numbers are reset but files are recorded to the same directory as previous files, a suffix “A” is added
to the file. If additional duplicate files are generated the letter suffix increments, to B, C, etc.
Appendix D- FAT32 and Maximum File Size
The 788T storage volumes (internal hard drive, CF, external drives) are formatted and write to FAT32
file structures. This structure allows these drives to directly mount in a wide variety of computer
platforms, including Windows and Mac OS. Using the FireWire and USB connections, both internal
drives (internal hard drive and CF) appear as external FAT32 volumes. FAT32 has a maximum individual file size limitation of 4 GB.
Windows XP has a limitation on FAT32 drive formatting; XP can format a FAT32 volume to a maximum
of 32 GB, however it can read FAT32 volumes as large as 2 TB.
Appendix E - Accessories
Several high-value accessories are available for the 788T, including a production case, cables, and
power accessories. For a full list of Sound Devices products and accessories, visit our web site www.
sounddevices.com/products.
Included Accessories
The accessories below are included with the 788T:
•
•
•
•
XL-WPH3 - Universal In-Line Power Supply, 100–240 VAC input, 12 VDC, 45 W output
XL-B2 - Li-ion removable rechargeable battery, 4600 mAh
XL-RJ - C. Link cable
CS-MAN - Padded man-bag
Other 788T Related Accessories
CL-8
Control surface for the 788T Digital Recorder, it significantly expands mixing capability and overall usability of the 788T. Its large
rotary style faders provide the Sound Mixer with precise control of
gain levels sent to the Master Left/Right mix tracks.
Provides control over input settings, including input-to-track routing, high-pass filter, limiter, and input polarity. It displays input
activity and can Solo any input. The CL-8 has a dedicated button
for the 788T’s built in Slate Mic.
CL-1
Remote Control and Keyboard Interface used to control the 788T’s
record start and stop functions using a toggle switch. Allows user
to connect a PS/2 keyboard for control and metadata entry.
CS-4
Production case with high-quality strap for use with the 788T with
integrated accessory compartment and NP-type battery compartment. Built for Sound Devices by CamRade.
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CS-W
Removable accessory case for the CS-4 Production Case. Designed
to hold wireless transmitters and receivers and provides the appropriate cable routing for interconnection of wireless, mixers, and
recorders. Built for Sound Devices by CamRade.
CS- MAN
Convenient, padded carry/storage case with handles, handy to
store wallets, keys and mobile phones; handcrafted in China.
XL-1B
TA3F to TA3F cable, used to connect the direct outputs of the a
Sound Devices 442 mixer to the 788T’s analog inputs 5-8, also used
to connect analog outputs 1-4 to third-party devices with TA3M
inputs.
XL-2
TA3F to XLR-M cable, used to connect analog outputs 1-4, and digital outputs 1-4 to third-party devices with XLR-F inputs.
XL-2F
XLR-F to TA3F cable, used to connect microphones, mixers, and
other devices with XLR-M outputs to the 788T analog inputs 5-8.
XL-B2
Removable, rechargeable, Li-ion battery; 7.2 V, 4600 mAh battery;
good to have several spares.
XL-BNC
BNC to BNC cable, to connect word clock from external sources
to the 788T for synchronizing the 788T; also used to sync external
devices from the word clock of the 788T.
XL-DVDRAM
An external bus-powered FireWire DVD Multi-drive. Based on the
slot-loading Panasonic UJ-85 drive mechanism, the XL-DVDRAM
is used with a 7-Series recorder to record directly to optical disk or
as a post-record storage volume.
XL-H
Bare Hirose 4-pin locking DC connector (HR10-7P-4P).
XL-LB2
5-pin LEMO to two (2) BNC cable, used to jam to and from video
cameras.
XL-LL
5-pin LEMO to 5-pin LEMO cable, used to connect the 788T time
code circuit to Ambient time code sync boxes, slates, and controllers or to jam one 788T to another time code equipped 7-Series
recorder; additionally used to jam Aaton cameras from the 788T.
XL-LX
5-pin LEMO to XLR-M and XLR-F cable, used to connect the time
code output to SMTPE time code inputs and outputs.
XL-NPH
NP-type battery cup with 12-inch cable terminated in Hirose 4-pin
locking DC connector (HR10-7P-4P) at equipment end.
XL-WPH3
Universal In-Line Power Supply, 100–240 VAC input, 12 VDC, 45
W output. It is always good to have a spare.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
788T User Guide and Technical Information
CE Declaration of Conformity
According to ISO/IEC Guide 22
Sound Devices, LLC
300 Wengel Drive
Reedsburg, WI 53959 USA
declares that the product, 788T Professional Digital Audio Recorder is in conformity with and passes:
89/336/EEC
EMC Directive
EN 55103-1, 1997
EMC-Product Family Standard for Audio, Video, Audio-Visual and Entertainment
Lighting Control Apparatus for Professional use. Part 1: Emissions
EN 55103-1, 1997
EMC-Product Family Standard for Audio, Video, Audio-Visual and Entertainment
Lighting Control Apparatus for Professional use. Part 2: Immunity
CISPR 22, 2006 (EN 55022, 2006)
Radiated Emissions, Class B
CISPR 22, 2006 (EN 55022, 2006)
Conducted Emissions Class B
IEC 61000-3-2, 2005
EN 61000-3-2, 2001
Harmonic Current Emissions (through Amendment 14 of IEC 61000-4-7)
IEC 61000-3-3, 2005
EN 61000-3-3, 2002
Voltage Fluctuation and Flicker
EN 55103-1 Phenomena 2,3, 1997
EN 55103-1
Magnetic Emissions at 1 Meter 50Hz – 50kHz
IEC 61000-4-2, 2001
EN 61000-4-2, 2001
ESD, ±4kV Contact, ±8kV Air Discharge
IEC 61000-4-3, 2006
EN 61000-4-3, 2005
Radiated RF Immunity, 3V/m, 80% AM @
1kHz, 1% step of the previous frequency
80-1000 MHz
IEC 61000-4-4, 2004
EN 61000-4-4, 2005
EFT Burst:
±0.5 kV - ±2kV
IEC 61000-4-4, 2004
EN 61000-4-4, 2005
EFT Burst ±0.5kV to ±1kV
IEC 61000-4-5, 2005
EN 61000-4-5, 2001
Surge ±1kV Differential Mode (line to line)
±2kV Common Mode (line to ground)
IEC 61000-4-5, 2005
EN 61000-4-5, 2001
Surge ± 1kV Common Mode
IEC 61000-4-6, 2006
EN 61000-4-6, 2005
Conducted RF Immunity: 3 V
80% AM modulation @ 1kHz
IEC 61000-4-6, 2006
EN 61000-4-6, 2005
Conducted RF Immunity: 3 V,
80% AM modulation @ 1kHz
EN 55103-2 Phenomena 3, 1997
EN 55103-2, 1997
Magnetic Immunity 50Hz – 10 KHz
IEC 61000-4-11, 2004
EN 61000-4-11, 2004
Voltage Dips and Short Interruptions at test
Voltage level: 70%, 40% and 5% nominal
for 10ms, 100ms, 1 sec and 5 sec (50Hz)
Tested by L. S. Compliance, Inc. Cedarburg, Wisconsin
April 3, 2008
Matthew Anderson
Director of Engineering
Sound Devices, LLC
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Software License
End-user license agreement for Sound Devices 7-Series Embedded Software / Firmware
Important Read carefully: This Sound Devices, LLC end-user license agreement (“EULA”) is a legal agreement between you (either
an individual or a single entity) and Sound Devices, LLC for the Sound Devices, LLC software product identified above, which includes
computer software, embedded software, and may include associated media, printed materials, and “online” or electronic documentation
(“SOFTWARE PRODUCT”). By using, installing, or copying the SOFTWARE PRODUCT, you agree to be bound by the terms of this
EULA. If you do not agree to the terms of this EULA, do not use or install the SOFTWARE PRODUCT.
Software Product License
The SOFTWARE PRODUCT is protected by copyright laws and international copyright treaties, as well as other intellectual property laws
and treaties. The SOFTWARE PRODUCT is licensed, not sold.
Grant of license. This EULA grants you the following limited, non-exclusive rights: In consideration of payment of the licensee fee, Sound
Devices, LLC, as licensor, grants to you, the licensee, a non-exclusive right to use this copy of a Sound Devices, LLC software program
(hereinafter the “SOFTWARE”) on a single product and/or computer. All rights not expressly granted to licensee are reserved to Sound
Devices, LLC.
Software ownership. As the licensee, you own the hardware on which the SOFTWARE is recorded or fixed. Sound Devices, LLC shall
retain full and complete title to the SOFTWARE and all subsequent copies of the SOFTWARE, regardless of the media or form on or in
which the original copies may exist. The license is not a sale of the original SOFTWARE.
Copyright. All rights, title, and copyrights in and to the SOFTWARE PRODUCT (including, but not limited to, any images, photographs,
animations, video, audio, music, text, and “applets” incorporated into the SOFTWARE PRODUCT) and any copies of the SOFTWARE
PRODUCT are owned by Sound Devices, LLC or its suppliers. The SOFTWARE PRODUCT is protected by copyright laws and international treaty provisions. Therefore, you must treat the SOFTWARE PRODUCT like any other copyrighted material, except that you may
make copies as only provided below. You may not copy the printed materials accompanying the SOFTWARE PRODUCT.
Restrictions on use. Licensee may not distribute copies of the SOFTWARE or accompanying materials to others. Licensee may not
modify, adapt, translate, reverse engineer, decompile, disassemble, or create derivative works based on the SOFTWARE or its accompanying printed or written materials.
Transfer restrictions. Licensee shall not assign, rent, lease, sell, sublicense, or otherwise transfer the SOFTWARE to another party without prior written consent of Sound Devices, LLC. Any party authorized by Sound Devices, LLC to receive the SOFTWARE must agree to
be bound by the terms and conditions of this agreement.
Termination. Without prejudice to any other rights, Sound Devices, LLC may terminate this EULA if you fail to comply with the terms and
conditions of this EULA. In such event, you must destroy all copies of the SOFTWARE PRODUCT and all of its component parts.
Limited Warranty
No warranties. Sound Devices, LLC expressly disclaims any warranty for the SOFTWARE PRODUCT. The SOFTWARE PRODUCT and
any related documentation is provided “as is” without warranty or condition of any kind, either express or implied, including, without limitation, the implied warranties and conditions of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. The entire risk arising
out of use or performance of the SOFTWARE PRODUCT remains with you.
No liability for damages. In no event shall Sound Devices, LLC or its suppliers be liable for any damages whatsoever (including, without
limitation, damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or any other pecuniary loss) arising
out of the use of or inability to use this Sound Devices, LLC product, even if Sound Devices, LLC has been advised of the possibility of
such damages. In any case, Sound Devices, LLC’s entire liability under any provision of this evaluation license shall be limited to the
greater of the amount actually paid by you for the SOFTWARE PRODUCT or U.S. $5.00. Because some states/jurisdictions do not allow
the exclusion or limitation of liability for consequential or incidental damages, the above limitation may not apply to you.
Governing Law
This agreement and limited warranty are governed by the laws of the state of Wisconsin.
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788T User Guide and Technical Information
Warranty and Technical Support
Warranty & Service
Sound Devices, LLC warrants the 788T Portable Audio Recorder against defects in materials and
workmanship for a period of ONE (1) year from date of original retail purchase. This is a nontransferable warranty that extends only to the original purchaser. Sound Devices, LLC will repair or
replace the product at its discretion at no charge. Warranty claims due to severe service conditions
will be addressed on an individual basis. THE WARRANTY AND REMEDIES SET FORTH ABOVE
ARE EXCLUSIVE. SOUND DEVICES, LLC DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. SOUND DEVICES, LLC IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY OR UNDER ANY
OTHER LEGAL THEORY. Because some jurisdictions do not permit the exclusion or limitations set
forth above, they may not apply in all cases.
For all service, including warranty repair, please contact Sound Devices for an RMA (return merchandise authorization) before sending your unit in for repair. Product returned without an RMA
number may experience delays in repair. When sending a unit for repair, please do not include accessories, including CF cards, batteries, power supplies, carry cases, cables, or adapters unless instructed by Sound
Devices.
Sound Devices, LLC
Service Repair RMA #XXXXX
300 Wengel Drive
Reedsburg, WI 53959 USA
telephone: (608) 524-0625
Technical Support / Bug Reports
For technical support and bug reporting on all Sound Devices products contact:
Sound Devices, LLC
E-mail: [email protected]
web: www.sounddevices.com/contact_support.htm
Telephone: +1 (608) 524-0625 / Toll-Free in the U.S.A.: (800) 505-0625
Fax: +1 (608) 524-0655
Sound Devices hosts a support forum for 7-Series recorders. The URL is:
http://forums.sounddevices.com
Sound Devices cannot guarantee that a given computer, software, or operating system configuration can be used satisfactorily with the 788T based exclusively on the fact that it meets our minimum
system requirements.
Please check with your software editing application to make certain that it is compatible with the file
type selected.
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788T rev. 1.60 - Printed in U.S.A.